The mock trial has proven to be an effective learning tool for students of all grade levels. It helps them understand the law, practice critical thinking, and gain greater confidence with public speaking by assuming the roles of attorneys and witnesses in a fictional criminal or civil trial.

Participants experience first-hand the difficulties that judges, lawyers and juries face in determining which facts are relevant and what legal arguments are effective.

See below for more information about:

 

High School Competition

Each year, more than 70 teams, totaling some 1,200 students, compete at regional, state and national levels — with support from more than 500 attorneys, educators and other community representatives acting as coaches, judges and coordinators.

This year’s case is State v. Lane: a criminal case where the defendant, a rap artist, is charged with inciting a riot and arson.  Hot stuff!

Click here to learn more!

 

 

Metro Mock Trial

This November, 30 teams of students from Portland area high schools will assume the roles of attorneys and witnesses to argue a criminal or civil case before almost 70 attorneys, judges, educators and law students at the Multnomah County Courthouse.

This event is intended to give students new to the mock trial program an opportunity to gain experience, provide returning students a chance to try out new roles and skills, and allow Portland area high schools a chance to start a team.

 

Non-competitive

Just interested in putting on a mock trial with your class or community group without the commitment of the competition?  Check out the extensive mock trial collection available for download on our Resource page.

 

Mock Trial Cases

2010 – State v. Lane: Part 1 | Part 2
A criminal case where the defendant, a rap artist, is charged with inciting a riot and arson.

2009 – Simon v. Swift and Eastside High School: Part 1 | Part 2
A civil case where the deceased was a student-athlete who had used steriods.

2008 – State v. Campbell: Part 1 | Part 2
A criminal case where the bullying victim is charged with planting a bomb at school.

2007 – Johnson v. Brewster, Miller, and WASP: Part 1 | Part 2
 A wrongful death action against not only the convicted wrongdoer, but the person and organization inciting hate.

2006 – State v. Kendall: Part 1 | Part 2
The case of fast cars in Caneville.

2005 – Parker et al v. Paradise County SD: Part 1 | Part 2
The case of the hazardous homework.

2004 – State v. Martin: Part 1 | Part 2
A criminal case where a student is charged with murder after a high school rock climber is found dead at the base of a cliff.

The People v. Andrew Jackson: Case | Teaching Notes
Historical mock trial for grades 8-12.

 

Mock Trial Manual

Step by step instructions, lesson plans, and supplementary resources: Manual | Handouts | Appendix