Mock Trial
Read about our first competition here here!
Watch a video recap of our first trial here!
Read about us in the Collegian here!
Interested? Contact the team here.
What is mock trial?
Mock trial offers an opportunity for aspiring attorneys to form teams and prepare to try cases against universities from across the country. Teams are made up of 6-8 students, who take on the roles of attorneys and witnesses in the trial. Teams argue both sides of the case several times during each tournament, and the same case is used for the entire competitive season (the fall semester).
Mock trial is a great activity for preparing students to think critically, communicate effectively, and work in a team. Law schools hold mock trial participation in high regard, and participants have a competitive edge once they start law school. Participants also receive academic credit (COMM 460: Advanced Trial Advocacy).
K-State's mock trial team is a subsidiary of the Legal Communication Program, a major in the Department of Communication Studies, Theatre, and Dance. Students do not have to be majors to participate.
How can I get involved with K-State's mock trial team?
Our team competes every fall semester. If you're interested in next fall's team, you'll need to take COMM 260: Introduction to Trial Advocacy this spring. Students from this class will comprise the core of next year's team. Even if you decide not to compete, you'll have fun and may be able to count the course toward your major's communication requirements.
COMM 260 is permission only and space is limited. Pre-law students should contact the pre-law advisor Mrs. Daralyn Arata to get on her list; all other students should contact team advisor Dr. LeAnn Brazeal.
Even though I'm not competing, is there anything I can do now?
Absolutely. The K-State Mock Trial Club is open to any student interested in legal communication. You do not have to be a team member to belong to the club, and you can take part in all our non-competitive activities. Contact Club President Emily Westfall or Dr. Brazeal for more info
Anything else I should know?
Mock trial is a great activity for anyone interested in law school, even if you don't plan on being a litigator! It shows admissions committees you understand how to think critically, create arguments, and read and write persuasively. Mock trial students have a definite edge.
If you enjoy these classes, consider a major in Communication Studies (our Legal Communication emphasis). Communication is a critical part of everything an attorney does - including interviewing clients, negotiating, working in a team, and speaking persuasively. Understanding how communication works will be a plus for any attorney, no matter the setting or specialty.
