Mock Trial

In this hands-on elective course students are given an overview of the civil court system and learn the parts of a civil trial from start to finish by following a mock trial problem used by the New Jersey State Bar Association. Students also submit a complete written trial brief which contains the same standard parts found in any trial brief: preliminary statement, statement of facts and procedural history, legal argument, and conclusion.

In learning what successful trial attorneys do, students also develop a variety of skills that allow them to achieve success in any field. Through the trial and appellate process students develop analytical reasoning and writing skills. Since successful trial lawyers must be able to develop a legal theory based on the law and the existing facts, students practice and refine their analytical and problem solving skills. In addition, each student learns how to respond to an argument, and clearly articulate a position. Accordingly, the mock trial student develops public speaking, organizational and advocacy skills. Finally, as is the case in the real world, a trial attorney is only successful if he/she is both individually accountable for his/her performance and is able to work well with his/her trial team. This course demands individual accountability of students but also requires team work. Thus, students develop the team building skills necessary to navigate this cooperative learning environment.