About Us

What is Mock Trial?

Mock trial is a competitive activity where a team of students puts on a trial against another team of students. The competition is judged by real-life attorneys and judges. In mock trial, students are given a case file (which includes witness statements, evidence and relevant laws), and then they use that case file to write direct- and crosss-examinations, as well as opening statements and closing arguments. The goal is to use the materials provided to make logical arguments and put on the best case possible for your client.

Teams are made up of six to ten individuals, and each team has students who function as attorneys, and students who portray witnesses. Thus, there is an element of drama in mock trial. Ultimately, teams compete against each other with one team representing the plaintiff/prosecution and the other representing the defendant. Both teams present their case and are judged on their presentation and case theory.

What is SDMT?

Sun Devil Mock Trial (SDMT) is Arizona State University's only recognized student group that does mock trial. It is also the only organization on campus that has official ties to the American Mock Trial Association, which means SDMT is sanctioned to compete in AMTA tournaments.

SDMT strives to be both educational and competitive. It is made up of students from all walks of life who tryout to be a part of the organization's teams. A minimum of six students are needed to compete, but the organization has no maximum other than that dictated by financial resources and coaching resources. SDMT has two coaches and numerous consultants who advise the team. The organization has an Executive Board made up of student members who help run the day-to-day operations of SDMT. Finally, as required by ASU bylaws, the organization has a faculty advisor in Dr. John Johnson of the School of Justice and Social Inquiry.

Why join?

The mock trial experience is a truly unique one. The long hours spent working with teammates towards a common goal results in a real feeling of family. This feeling is amplified at competitions where all the joys, sorrows and fun of trying to win are shared by all.

In addition, mock trial is an incredibly powerful tool that can be used to develop and improve public speaking skills, critical analysis skills, persuasive communication skills, and the ability to think on one's feet. These skills are valuable inside the classroom and can benefit you no matter what you want to accomplish with your life.

Mock trial also provides a forum for students to work with their peers in a team setting. Members will be required to work individually, in pairs, and in large groups. Members may also be asked to lead peers in certain situations. These situations help individuals learn important time management and interpersonal skills.

Who can participate?

To be a member of Sun Devil Mock Trial who is eligible to compete in tournaments you must be an undergraduate enrolled at one of ASU's campuses and in good academic standing. You do not have to be in the pre-law program or even have any interest in law school to be a valuable team member. We currently have members from a wide variety of disciplines from business to languages to the sciences. Our graduates have gone on to enroll at grad schools, law schools, vet school and have directly entered the work force. Thus, all majors and walks of life are encouraged to see what mock trial can offer them.

Individuals who wish to improve their speaking skills, who want to develop critical reasoning and analysis skills, who have an interest in acting, or who have a desire to more fully understand the legal system are ideal for mock trial. If you enjoy competition and the thrill of victory, then you'll probably also enjoy mock trial.

How much time does it take?

The amount of time mock trial requires varies depending on an individual's goals and roles. In an attempt to give an opportunity to both students who want to seriously pursue mock trial and national success, as well as those students who just want to learn and have fun, we offer varying levels of commitment. Please note that no matter what your goals are, there is some flexibility with the practice schedule.

Students who want a less intense experience will make up a team that is required to meet every weekend for 3-4 hours, and that will spend one weekend in both the fall and spring semesters at competitions.

Students looking to put more time into mock trial can expect to practice three times a week (3-4 hours per practice) and will attend multiple tournaments (at least two) in both the fall and spring semesters.

Are there any costs?

There are some expenses associated with mock trial, but SDMT will never refuse or remove a member for financial reasons. We will always work to solve any money concerns that may arise.

For the current season (09-10), SDMT is charging membership dues of $75 In addition, anytime air travel is required, SDMT will ask for an additional $50 from those members who are flying. Finally, students are responsible for any food expenses they incur during tournaments.

SDMT spends a significant amount of time and energy raising money to keep costs low to members. Our hope is to raise enough funds so that no expenses (other than those mentioned above) fall to the members. In the event that sufficient funds cannot be obtained, we will discuss possibilities with the membership and move forward from there.