Buffalo State College Mock Trial
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Mock Trial is a legal competition where students take on roles as attorneys and witnesses and prepare a case to argue in court against other teams in a national competition organized by the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA).
Students get a case packet that is released in late August. The packet contains evidence, exhibits, affidavits, and instructions, and is the problem competitors will work on in preparation for competition. Students work with team coaches who are college faculty members, attorneys, and law students to prepare each side of the case: Prosecution/defense or plaintiff/defense depending on if it is criminal or civil as the cases alternate each year. Once the preparation begins, students will create original work to prepare for their competition. Just like attorneys in real life, students competitors frame their case by preparing opening statements, direct and cross examinations, and closing statements, as well as exhibits for presentation at trial. In addition, students will become proficient in the Rules of Evidence and understand objections, courtroom etiquette and procedure, and basic legal analysis.
Participants learn legal principles, public communication, logic, and analytical skills, as well as networking with schools across New York State while learning what it is like to be in court. These attributes will be invaluable to students of any discipline. For students entering law school, or studying for law enforcement, trial procedure is something you will eventually encounter in court, so experiencing it now is great!
Here at Buffalo State, we are a chapter of the American Mock Trial Association. Students of all majors and career goals are invited to join the team. Even if you don't want to participate, you are welcome to learn about the case we have and give your ideas.
Check our news section for our upcoming events and meeting times. If you are interested, see our FAQ section or contact Team Coach Jessica Noto at notojessica@gmail.com or Assistant Coach Henry Zomerfeld at henryzom@buffalo.edu.
