The Roles

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.