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By the Juris Education Interview
Clarissa Theiss is the President of the Penn State Mock Trial Association.
Mock trial is a simulated legal competition where two teams, one representing the plaintiff and the other the defense, argue a fictional civil or criminal case before a panel of judges. Students take on roles as both attorneys and witnesses, delivering opening statements, conducting direct and cross examinations, and making objections. Each performance of material is scored on a scale of 1 to 10, and the team with the highest total score wins the round. In undergraduate mock trial, universities like Penn State compete in the American Mock Trial Association circuit against other schools across the country.
Being on the mock trial team really teaches you the power of teamwork and collaboration in a way that’s hard to match anywhere else in college. You’re constantly working with your teammates to build the case, fine-tune arguments, and figure out strategies. It’s not just about splitting up tasks or assigning roles; it’s about learning how to communicate effectively, trust each other’s strengths, and adapt when things don’t go according to plan. In real trials, no one can win alone, and this experience teaches you how to rely on a team and contribute your best in ways that elevate everyone. Plus, you get to experience what it’s like to work in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment, which is exactly what collaboration looks like in most careers.
The most challenging aspect of participating in mock trial is definitely the pressure of performing in front of judges and opponents while staying sharp and adaptable. You have to be prepared for anything, whether it’s an unexpected objection, a tricky cross-examination, or a curveball from opposing counsel. It requires you to think on your feet and maintain composure, which can be stressful, especially during high-stakes rounds.
On the flip side, the most rewarding part is when all the hard work and preparation pay off. The sense of accomplishment when you nail an argument, make a strong objection, or win a round with your team is unbeatable. You get to see your growth not just in legal skills, but also in confidence, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. It’s a rush that feels like a combination of success and personal development all in one.
Mock trials are an amazing way for students to get a real feel for a career in law because they simulate the courtroom experience in a hands-on way. You’ll use the rules of evidence, argue objections, and present your case just like attorneys do. Plus, you get judged by practicing legal experts, including attorneys and judges, which gives you direct feedback from people who are in the field. It’s the perfect way to prepare for law school or a legal career while figuring out if that’s the path you want to take.
To really make the most of a mock trial competition or program, you’ve got to be open to stepping outside your comfort zone. That means being ready to take on roles you might not have experience with or feel totally comfortable in, whether it’s playing a witness when you’re used to being an attorney or handling a part of the case you haven’t practiced much. And just as important, be open to feedback. Whether it’s from your teammates or the legal professionals judging the competition, constructive criticism is your best tool for improving. Don’t take it personally; use it to refine your skills and strategies. The more flexible you are and the more you push yourself, the more you’ll learn and grow, both as an individual and as part of the team.
When you're trying to find the right mock trial competition, the most important thing to keep in mind is that it's all about the people. The team you end up with can really make or break your experience, so finding a group that you mesh with is super important. Every university and program runs differently—some are student-run, where the team takes on more responsibility and leadership, while others have larger coaching staffs that are more hands-on and provide a lot of guidance. This really shapes the culture and expectations of the team.
If you're someone who likes a bit more freedom and independence, you might thrive in a student-run team. But if you prefer more structure and direct coaching, a program with a bigger coaching staff might be a better fit. It's definitely worth researching programs, talking to current members, and getting a feel for how things run. At the end of the day, the best fit for you is the one where you feel comfortable, supported, and excited to work with your teammates.
Juris Education is proud to interview experts like Clarissa Theiss to help future lawyers understand the benefits of extracurricular involvement in college. Learn more about how our experts can help you get into law school today.
