About MMT

Frequently asked questions:

Do I need to have previous mock trial experience to join?

Nope! Our team is a mix of people who've done mock trial, who did adjacent activities like speech, debate, and theatre, AND students who have never done any of those. Past experience is not taken into account during your try-out for the team.

How much of a time commitment is mock trial?

Mock trial requires a significant commitment, but the experience is incredibly rewarding. While schedules vary throughout the year, members typically practice with their teams three to four times per week for several hours each session. As the competitive season approaches in the winter semester, teams often increase their practice schedule in preparation for competition.
In addition to regular practices, members travel to approximately five tournaments each year, competing against universities from across the country. These tournaments provide valuable opportunities to develop advocacy skills, build lasting friendships, and represent the University of Michigan on the national stage.

What are you looking for in tryouts?

We want to see that you are dedicated to presenting a good tryout and that you will fit in well with our team. We value people that can communicate in a very personable manner and who can think on their feet.

For attorneys specifically: we want to see that you can analyze a case and present logical arguments. We also want to see that you have poise and confidence when you present arguments.

For witnesses: we want to see that you have charisma and can entertain us with a fun or dramatic story. We want to see improvisational skills and an ability to stay constant with your character when asked questions you may not be prepared for.

What is Mock Trial?

Michigan Mock Trial competes in the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA), the governing body for collegiate mock trial. Mock trial is a simulated courtroom competition that combines legal analysis, public speaking, critical thinking, and advocacy skills.

During competition, one university's plaintiff or prosecution team faces another university's defense team, and then the roles are reversed. Throughout a three-hour trial, students deliver opening statements, conduct direct and cross examinations of witnesses, argue objections using the Federal Rules of Evidence, and present closing arguments. Competitors are evaluated by a panel of legal professionals, including practicing attorneys, judges, and other members of the legal community.

The fall semester is focused on learning case materials, developing trial skills, and competing at invitational tournaments across the country. In February, teams compete at Regional Tournaments for the opportunity to advance to the National Championship Tournament.

Each April, the nation's top teams gather to compete at the National Championship Tournament. Forty-eight teams earn bids to this prestigious event, where they compete through multiple power-matched rounds for the chance to be crowned National Champion.

Beyond competition, Michigan Mock Trial provides students with unparalleled opportunities to develop courtroom advocacy, leadership, teamwork, and analytical skills that prepare them for success in law school and a wide range of professional careers.

What makes our team unique?

Michigan Mock Trial is a highly competitive program with three competitive teams. Our team has traveled to Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Chicago, and many more amazing cities. MMT is also a social organization that fosters lifelong friendships and activities outside the actual mock trial competition.

To view our Maize Pages: click here

Unlike most other university teams, Michigan Mock Trial is an entirely student run program. This means that the students take a central role in planning and implementing the competitive season, where returning members pass on their knowledge to new members. In doing so, we determine case theory and legal arguments independent of faculty advisors or attorney coaches. We also run our own practices and handle our own finances.