Mock Trial: A Brief Description
What is Mock Trial?
Mock Trial is a competition in which two teams try a criminal or civil case against each other, with one team representing the prosecution and the other team the defense. In competition, the students use the Federal Rules of Evidence, along with a number of case strategies, in order to simulate a criminal trial. Students play both attorneys and witnesses. Attorneys are responsible for direct examinations, cross examinations, opening statements and closing arguments. Witnesses participate in direct examination and cross examination. Judges score the speeches and examinations based on a number of factors, including content, performance, poise and presence in the courtroom. The American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) sanctions the competitions and provides a new case each year.
How does Columbia Mock Trial work?
Columbia Mock Trial fields multiple competitive teams that travel to tournaments across the country. Each team consists of between six and eight members. All team members work with others on their roles as either attorneys or a witnesses (or both), and work together as a group to formulate case theories and strategies. The season spans from September to March/April. During that time, the teams travel to invitational, regional, and national tournaments around the country. Columbia Mock Trial consistently places one of its teams in the top ten nationally. This past year, Columbia placed fifth at the National Championship Tournament in St. Petersburg, FL, and placed sixth at the National Tournament in St. Paul, MN. Columbia is currently ranked in the top ten in the country.
How can I get involved?
You can e-mail our president, Evan Daar and let him know that you are interested in becoming a member. Every fall, we host a Meet and Greet during Orientation Week and we always have a table out on College Walk on Activities Day. Tryouts are held within the first few weeks of the Fall semester. Check the website for more information about tryouts in the future.
