Buffalo State College Mock Trial
Frequently Asked Questions
Mock Trial is more than a club or organization, it is a competition team. We spend a lot of time learning, drafting, and practicing for our competitions. We know there is a lot of work involved, but it is all rewarding! We hope the information below helps answer any questions or concerns you may have. If not, contact us.
01
What is mock trial?
Mock trial is a legal competition team where student participants take on roles as attorneys and witnesses to present a trial. The case problem alternates between civil and criminal after each season. See our About section for more information.
02
What major or classes do I need to participate?
Mock trial is open to all majors! While there are many classes that will assist you in participating in mock trial, such as Introduction to Law, Moot Court, Public Speaking/Oral Communication, and Writing, we do not require that you complete any specific classes to join. If you are interested in taking law related courses, please speak with a member of the coaching staff.
03
What is the time committment involved?
Like anything, you get out of mock trial what you put into it. That being said, there is a substantial time committment. Team members meet for one scheduled night during the week, Saturday mornings, and then meet outside of scheduled times to prepare. As competitions approach, those meetings increase in frequency. As they say: "Practice makes perfect." While this is cliche, as the coaching staff reminds the competitors, in real life, the practice of law is called "practice" for a reason.
We expect that if you become a full competing member of this team, that you will have the time or make the time to commit fully. In order to be proficient and effective, the team needs to practice collectively.
Students who do not want to compete, but still participate on the team may do so in auxilary roles such as a paralegal, who will assist in case preparation and competition analyses, or as an executive board member who will oversee the administrative tasks of the team and ensure compliance with student government (USG).
Despite the time committment, we can say confidently that there are many rewards in participating. We hope you join us to benefit from those rewards!
04
What will I learn?
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Whether you are interested in law or not, mock trial teaches you many skills that you can take outside of mock trial and even outside of the classroom.
Skills such as oral communication and speaking in public are primary skills that can be used anywhere. Sharpening those skills in mock trial will benefit you for years to come. Additionally, mock trial competitors learn critical thinking and analytical skills as they begin developing their case.
Of course, as with any team, there is a lot of team bonding and enjoyment.
05
Is it fun?
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Of course it is! Otherwise, why would we do it? Ask our competitors and coaching staff, including those who not only coached, but who have participated in mock trial for many years, how fun it is. There is nothing like the rush you get from being in the courtroom and winning a case!