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Aspiring lawyers should consider participating in a mock trial in high school to begin preparing for their careers. To learn more about what mock trials are, read on.
The typical extracurriculars high school students participate in are school sports-teams, debate clubs, yearbook committee, part-time jobs at local fast food restaurants, and volunteer positions at hospitals, food banks, or shelters.
However, another highly valuable extracurricular students should consider participating in is mock trials. This activity is particularly useful for students interested in political or legal careers. If you’ve never heard of mock trials before or want more information on how to get involved in them, this guide has got you covered!
Aspiring lawyers should consider participating in a mock trial in high school to begin preparing for their careers. Read on for everything you need to know.
You stand before the judge, heart pounding as you prepare to deliver your opening statement. The courtroom falls silent as all eyes turn toward you. While it may feel like the real thing, this is just a mock trial. But don't be fooled - these simulated courtroom experiences can be just as intense and rewarding as the actual practice of law.
For high school students aspiring to become future attorneys, participating in mock trials offers an incredible opportunity to gain early exposure to the legal field. More than just an extracurricular activity, these trials provide a training ground to develop foundational skills like public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork - tools that will benefit law students in any future career path.
So let's explore how they work, and why every high schooler should consider joining their school's team. Be prepared to step into the courtroom and experience the exhilaration of litigation firsthand.
There are several steps involved in mock trials:
Cases are available for viewing and distribution several weeks before the start of the first round. Students must prepare for both sides of the case, as they will not know if they will be acting as the prosecution or the defense during the trial.
Part of this preparation will include delegating tasks to the members of your team. Each team is composed of between six and nine teammates, of which three will act as attorneys and three will act as witnesses during each round. If there is a seventh member, they will act as a timekeeper.
On the day of the trial, a coin toss will be used to determine which team will represent the defense and which will represent the prosecution, which is why your team must craft comprehensive arguments for both sides!
Both sides will present their opening statements to the court before witnesses are brought to the stand. This statement should outline what they will be arguing, the evidence they will be using, and the witnesses they intend to call on.
Here, students’ articulation and persuasion will be assessed.
Each attorney will be responsible for the direct examination and cross-examination of a witness. You may only object to questions being asked of the witnesses you examine. There are only a few grounds of objection admissible in these sessions, which teams must familiarize themselves with during their prep.
You will also be given the chance to re-examine your witness after the cross-examination is complete. During the testimonies, the prosecution will also be expected to introduce evidence to the courtroom that can be objected to by the opposing side. The defense may also introduce evidence to the courtroom, but it is not required.
After the witnesses have been thoroughly examined, each side will give their closing statements to summarize the key evidence presented and offer their final reasons for the judge to rule in their favor.
At the end of the trial, the judging panel and presiding judge will determine which team had the stronger argument and score them. The precise scoring techniques will depend on the organization and level at which you are competing.
Participating in mock trials offers numerous benefits for high school students, helping them develop essential skills for success in college and future careers:
For aspiring lawyers, mock trials provide early exposure to the legal field, but the skills developed benefit students pursuing any career path
This will not only be useful for your college resume but can be used to explain your dedication to becoming an attorney in your law school personal statement or interview.
You may also begin building your network by meeting amazing mentors who can help you throughout your legal career! If you’re an extraordinary participant you can also qualify for awards, scholarships, or judging positions, which will look great on your college and law school resume!
Below we’ve answered the most common questions about competing in a trial.
Participating in mock trials helps develop critical thinking, public speaking, and analytical skills. Students learn to construct persuasive arguments, think on their feet, and communicate effectively.
Yes, mock trials are absolutely worth it for developing critical skills and gaining valuable experience. Participating in mock trials helps students hone their abilities in public speaking, critical thinking, persuasion, and forming cohesive arguments.
Yes, participating in mock trials can significantly boost your college application. Experience on a trial demonstrates strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and a clear drive to pursue a career in law or politics.
To compete in mock trials, first join a team at your school or university. Teams typically consist of 6-12 members who prepare both the prosecution/plaintiff and defense sides of a provided case packet.
Yes, mock trials can be quite challenging due to their unpredictable nature and the need for quick thinking. Participants must be able to craft persuasive arguments for both the prosecution/plaintiff and defense sides of a case. This requires a thorough analysis of case materials, including witness affidavits, exhibits, and legal documents.
As we’ve established, mock trials in high school can serve as excellent didactic tools for aspiring lawyers to gain confidence and insight into courtroom proceedings and how to argue a case. On a more general note, these can also just help you become a more confident speaker, which is a skill everyone can benefit from!
Accordingly, you should consider adding this extracurricular to your college resume to not only wow the admissions committee but to help you excel throughout your post-secondary journey!
