Mock Trial

This course is designed to introduce students to the foundations of civic engagement and the Judicial Branch of Government with a specific focus on law and trial system and the use of legal reasoning and argument in the context of trial advocacy. Students will have the opportunity to develop their understanding of the three co-equal branches of government, checks and balances, and build their skills in public speaking skills and debate through trial advocacy through playing the roles of attorneys and witnesses for either the plaintiff/prosecution and defense, engage in a trial of a fictional civil or criminal case. Students will also become familiar with witness questioning techniques and defense and plaintiff arguments. The class will employ a variety of strategies including research, discussion, and simulation. Students will include the preparing and completion in formal mock trial and involves working in teams, writing out their arguments, and delivering their arguments in a competitive setting.