About our Program
Our organization was founded in 2011 by a small group of law and undergraduate students here in Bloomington. As we grow in numbers, we have also grown in strength, sending multiple teams to the the National Championship Tournament. We are proud to be among the top 5% of programs in the nation, as well as the premier legal activity on campus, providing a framework for members to gain a better understanding of the practice of law. While engaging in competitive trial simulations with other undergraduate teams, students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills, as well as a knowledge of legal practices and procedures. Follow our progress and check back often for updates on your favorite undergraduate Mock Trial organization!
What We Do
Witnesses
In each mock trial round, both Plaintiff/Prosecution and Defense are required to call three witnesses each, who testify for their respective sides before being cross examined by the opposing side. Of course, in a real trial, a witness is just any someone or the other who happened to witness things important to the case. But what if that someone was the most bizarre, hilarious, or compelling person you could possibly think of? What if even their personality was designed to help you win your case? Their interpretation of the facts? In a mock trial, this is the key. Witnessing is acting, it is writing, and it is legal strategy. Not everyone wants to be a litigator (though those who do often make fantastic witnesses), and portraying a witness is a creative, rewarding medium for acting and character design within a legal setting.
Attorneys
A bench consists of three attorneys. Traditionally, one opens and another closes, and each attorney directs and cross examines a witness. Attorneys study the rules of evidence and learn to argue and apply them in objection battles. They gain insight not only from their coaches, but also from mock trial judges, who are often retired or practicing attorneys and judges. Beyond the courtroom, competitors must develop case theories and prepare speeches and examinations: each team must be prepared to argue both Plaintiff/Prosecution (in a civil or criminal case, respectively) and Defense, using the same facts and case materials provided by the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA). Though different, the role of an attorney is just as creative as that of a witness. Attorneys have the opportunity to bring their own style and flair to the courtroom while employing rhetoric and carefully-designed case theory to advance their arguments.
Meet our Executive Board
Contact Us
Whether you're interested in joining or you want to know more about our program, we're happy to answer any questions you have at hoosiermock@gmail.com. Or, submit an interest form below. For questions about our invitational, contact iumocktrialtournament@gmail.com.