What is Mock Trial?
Do I need any Mock Trial experience to be able to join the team?
Is this club only for pre-law majors?
Are transfer students welcome?
How do auditions work for the team?
How many teams does the club have?
How is one placed on a team?
Is the audition process competitive?
How do I prepare for auditions?
How often does the team meet?
- Mock Trial is a competitive pre-law team and student organization here at SJSU that incorporates law, speech, debate, and theatre in a courtroom atmosphere.
Do I need any Mock Trial experience to be able to join the team?
- Not at all! We had many first year members make up our team this year. We have competitive teams and non-competitive teams for students to join depending on their skill level and involvement, but no experience is required to qualify for either team!
Is this club only for pre-law majors?
- Not at all! We have competitors ranging from Climate Science to Psychology majors in our club. Many join to improve their public speaking and critical thinking skills. Mock Trial teaches many important skills that are crucial for students to learn as they begin their careers, regardless of major or post-graduation plans!
Are transfer students welcome?
- Yes! We accept all prospective undergraduate students between 1st and 5th year!
How do auditions work for the team?
- Auditions will be taking place during the first few weeks of the fall semester and you will be given case material to prepare. You can audition as an attorney, witness, or both.
How many teams does the club have?
- SJSU Mock Trial has 3 teams. Blue and Gold Teams are our competitive teams, which travel to invitationals, scrimmages, and AMTA's Regionals every year. Additionally, we have non-competitive Spartan Team, which focuses on education and development of skills. Spartan Team attends scrimmages, but does not compete in invitational tournaments.
How is one placed on a team?
- After auditions, your strengths and growth areas will be evaluated and you will be placed on either a competitive or non-competitive team based on your performance. Captains will also take into account the the team which you prefer to be placed on.
Is the audition process competitive?
- The audition process can be competitive, as we have many prospective members auditioning every year! However, our team has a no-cut policy, meaning that you are guaranteed a spot on at least one of our 3 teams just by auditioning!
How do I prepare for auditions?
- Our team captains will host an audition workshop every year before auditions to help you prepare. This preparation will look different based on the role that you are auditioning for, but our board members are available to answer any questions you may have!
How often does the team meet?
- SJSU Mock Trial has general team meetings once every week. These meetings are for all 3 teams and include important lessons regarding evidence, trial procedures, and more! Specific team meetings for Blue, Gold, and Spartan will vary depending on the availability of your team and the frequency of competitions. If you have any scheduling conflicts that may make it difficult for you to attend a meeting, you can let your captains know!