Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mock Trial?
Mock Trial is exactly what it sounds like, we compete in fake trials. At the beginning of each year the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) releases a nationwide case that is used for the rest of the season. Each team has both a plaintiff/prosecution and defense side; at tournaments our defense side will compete against another teams plaintiff/prosecution side and vice versa. Each side consists of three attorneys and three witnesses. We attempt to replicate a real life trial to the best of our ability, a competitive round consists of an opening statement, closing statement, direct examinations of witness', and cross examinations of witness'. Tournaments consist of four rounds of trial; each round consists of two to three judges that score each team's performance.
What is Mock Trial?
​Do I have to have previous mock trial experience to join?
Absolutely not! While some members have had experience doing high school mock trial, many of our current members had no idea what mock trial even was prior to joining. What's important is that you are a hard worker, someone who strives to be successful, and have the ability to conjugate a verb.
Do I have to have previous Mock experience to join?
​How much does being apart of EMU mock cost?
All travel expenses including tournament fees, transportation, and hotel rooms are fully covered! Members are only expected to pay for their food on trips. There is no need to eat at five star restaurants, Taco Bell and Wendy's are common lunch spots for tournaments. Members of the team also may need to buy a suit or formal attire if they do not already have it. However, we will help with those costs as much as possible!
How much does being a part of Mock at EMU cost?
What is the time commitment like?
EMU Mock Trial seeks to dominate its competition and work towards building a legacy program. These tasks would be impossible if we didn't require full dedication from our team members. Every attorney and/or witness has an important role to play for the whole team to success. Trust us when we say that the time you put into the team will be worth it when we're holding up trophies over our heads at award ceremonies. We normally meet twice a week for 2-3 hours on Mondays and Wednesdays, however, that may increase in the week or so leading up to a tournament. Each member is also expected to be practicing outside of our bi-weekly practices to improve their performance.
What is the time commitment like?
​Will I have time for anything other than mock trial?
Absolutely, first and foremost comes academics and we would never allow mock trial to stand in the way of one's academic success. Furthermore, most mockers are involved in other teams/organizations and/or have jobs/internships. If you are interested in moot court, as several mockers have historically done both, then please reach out to Dr. Barry Pyle for more information.