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Mock Trial is a team trial advocacy competition. At the beginning of the year, the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) presents each team with the same case, all containing witness affidavits, case law, and evidence and exhibits. The case will remain the same for the entire year, with a few case changes before regionals and nationals. Case changes can be as minimal as changing the date of something or as drastic as introducing a new witness or exhibit. Each year, the case alternates between civil and criminal. Once presented with the case, members of the team assume the roles of attorneys and witnesses and put together a case for both sides based on the material in the case packet. During the season, members compete at various invitational tournaments and engage in trial situations, essentially putting on a mock trial. Trials may last for more than 2 hours, but do not exceed 3 hours. Participation in Mock Trial helps develop public speaking and critical thinking skills, while also broadening one’s knowledge of legal proceedings.
Since Emory Mock Trial was founded over 10 years ago, it has consistently been one of the most competitive teams in the region. In the past 5 years, Emory has advanced at least one team to the Opening Round Championships and in 2009, and 2011, Emory succeeded in placing 1st and 2nd in the Region. Not only does the Emory Mock Trial team continue to bring home overall tournament wins, the team continues to rack in individual attorney and witness awards as well. In fact, in the 2010/2011 season alone, Emory brought home over 6 attorney awards and over 3 witness awards, averaging at least one individual award in each competition. But Emory Mock Trial extends far beyond the wins in the Courtroom and awards at competitions. As a member of Emory Mock Trial, you gain invaluable knowledge, skills and make lifelong friends. All Emory undergraduates are encouraged to join Mock Trial and no prior experience in law or Mock Trial is necessary!
