ABOUT US
WHAT IS MOCK TRIAL?
Mock trial is a competitive activity that simulates American trial court. Every year, hundreds of colleges across the country receive case materials from AMTA (the American Mock Trial Association) and proceed to prepare a civil or criminal case. Each school assembles its own roster of witnesses and attorneys and presents its case against other schools. Judges preside over the trial and score each element to determine the winner. Witnesses play characters who answer questions during direct and cross examinations; attorneys conduct the examinations, deliver opening and closing arguments, and make objections. Mock trial is a combination of public speaking, dramatic performance, and legal argument that rewards quick thinking and .
If you’re not familiar with mock trial, you can watch this clip from My Cousin Vinny to get an idea of what a cross examination is like. In this video, the attorney is attempting to prove that the witness may not have seen his clients leave and another pair of boys return in the meantime. If think you might like playing the attorney or the witness, mock trial is right for you!
WHY STANFORD MOCK TRIAL?
Stanford Mock Trial combines intelligence, fun, camaraderie, and hard work to create the most successful program possible. The challenge of mock trial is responding in-round to unknown factors with poise and confidence — and that is what we do best. We are ranked in the Top 40 teams in the nation. We’re one of fewer than ten programs nationwide to qualify to the National Championship for 8 consecutive years, and our members regularly win individual honors, including All-Regional, All-National, and All-American awards. We’ve consistently sent competitors to Trial by Combat, the Individual National Championships, and the Gauntlet. And this year, we’re looking to win it all.
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
SMT is a unique activity because the skills you learn in mock trial go beyond the courtroom. Public speaking skills, self-confidence, and poise are useful and valuable skills no matter your career aspirations. This activity hones you in ways that that will benefit your academic career, personal life, and professional relationships.
BUILDING A COMMUNITY
While winning is certainly one of our highest priorities, SMT is a team before anything else. Through weekly practices and cross-country tournaments, you will become very close to your teammates and build long-lasting friendships. It’s not rare to see members together at dining halls, parties, or chatting in the main quad.
BEING PART OF A LEGACY
SMT is proud to be part of a diverse community that builds upon the work of its predecessors. Even after graduation, members of SMT come back to watch tournaments and support their old teammates. They become part of an alumni community that is remembered and appreciated by current members.