We get the case packet in early December.  Once we get the case packet, we review the law, review the case citations, and review the Burden of Proof (Beyond a reasonable Doubt if its criminal or based on a preponderance of evidence likely, if its civil).

Its very important to base the entire argument on the law and how the law is proven (Or disproven if you are the defense)

Case citations are older legal cases which determined how similar legal arguments were defined, argued or concluded.  These cases serve as a guide for students to learn and interpret the case

We determine groups and roles.  For this team the following must be decided

A.  Opening Statement (1 lawyer is given this role)

B.  Opening Remarks or Housekeeping (1 Lawyer is given this role)

C.  Closing Arguments (1 lawyer is given this role

**  Lawyers cannot do more than 1 of the above

D.  Direct Examinations (1 lawyer for prosecution or plaintiff and 1 for defense for EACH witness.  1 student will play role of witness as well for 1 of 3 roles)

E.  Cross Examinations (1 lawyer for prosecution or plaintiff and 1 for defense for EACH witness.  Witness for opposing school will be cross examined)

After determining roles, students are put into groups and start their arguments.  Best prep order is as follows:

1.  Prepare direct examination questions

2. Edit direct and determine where to use evidence

3. Add in evidence questions (Evidence is used to show proof of claims made by a witness)

4. After direct is worked on, start preparing cross examination points

5. Practice, practice, practice (Direct and cross, edit as you practice)

6. Work on Opening, Closing or opening remarks (Whichever you are assigned)

7. Go head to head with other side of argument to get better

8. Competition against other schools is in early February