Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is mock trial?
Mock trials are utilized to provide students with simulated legal experience while also helping them develop research, argument, improvisational and public speaking skills. Mock trial is not designed as an attorney-in-training program. Although many students who participate enjoy the legal process, most students join so they can develop their research and argument skills as well as their confidence in presenting to groups in classrooms and actual courtrooms. Members have a lot of fun since it is a competition but is also a time to work as a team to defeat opposing counsel.
2. What should I bring to a competition?
What should be in your binder
-Your direct questions/answers
-Your cross questions
-Open/close
-Creative witness answers
-Affidavits that pertain specifically to you
-Must Haves (Coming soon...)
-Objections preparation (If, then…)
What should be in your team briefcase
-Affidavits for direct or cross (1 marked, 3 clean)
-Exhibits (1 marked, 3 clean)
-Timer sheets
-Roster sheets
-In trial notes: Opening statement, objections
3. How should I dress for a competition?
a. Attorneys on each team should dress in a coordinated fashion
b. Boys: Dark and conservative suit coat, white or non-bright dress shirt, do not take off suit during trial, clean looking shoes, always wear a belt. (There is no need to go by a $500 Armani suit. If you do not own one, borrow from a family member or you can purchase inexpensive ones a stores like Kohl’s or Goodwill. Many businessmen, such as Mark Cuban, began their careers wearing suits from Goodwill. Remember, in a courtroom, image can be reality.)
c. Girls: Business/news anchor attire, nothing provocative, no excessive makeup/jewelry, nothing loud (ex: leave the neon green blouse at home), conservative dress shoes (they look nice and you can move without falling over)
d. Witnesses: Dress can match the role more easily, no coordination necessary (in fact, dress like the witness would dress if they were attending court in real life)