Apply

How to Apply

We greatly appreciate your interest in the Mock Trial Competition Team at Auburn University. The team’s Executive Board will hold two information sessions about the organization. During these information sessions, we will present an overview of the program, and we will be discussing information on tryouts. This year, our tryout process will require applicants to present a prepared speech, an impromptu speech, and a cross examination. If you aren’t familiar with some of these terms, don’t worry! It is highly recommended that you attend an information session even if you do have previous mock trial experience.

To schedule a tryout, please attend an information session or email Luca Salmieri, Vice President of Recruitment (lss0046@auburn.edu). Listed below are some frequently asked questions that the team has answered. If you have questions that are not described below, please reach out to us.

FAQS

What does being on the team actually consist of?

Being on the mock trial team is an exceptionally time consuming commitment. We practice for two hours, three times a week, at a minimum. Class meets from 6:30-8:30 on Tuesday and Thursday and 4:30-6:30 on Sunday. Additionally, in the weeks leading to competitions, we will hold at least two scrimmages during the week to prepare for competitions. We attend up to three competitions in the fall, and around three in the spring. This is also subject to change, based on team performance and tournament availability. In terms of team roles, you have the opportunity to be placed as either an attorney or witness. Team role placement is determined by the Executive Board and respective team captains. As an attorney, you will write, memorize, and present an opening statement, direct examination, cross examination, AND/OR a closing argument. As a witness, you will be expected to prepare and present testimony based on your selected attorney's questions, and you will be responsible for adding "character" to it.

Do you receive course credit for being on the team?

Yes, you may receive course credit. Members will be enrolled in POLI 3330 and receive two credit hours in the fall term and two credit hours in the spring term. A maximum of total of twelve credit hours can be obtained by participating.

Does mock trial last throughout the entire year?

Yes, the entire season lasts all year long. We begin in August, and we will have the possibility of continuing to meet through Nationals, the championship rounds hosted in April.

Are there any requirements to join the team?

From the constitution and bylaws: "Membership is restricted to regularly enrolled Auburn University students, with at least a 3.0 cumulative institutional grade point average, faculty, and staff. Non-enrolled students, spouses, faculty, and staff may be associate members; however, they may not vote or hold office. No university student may be denied membership on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, color, age, disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or veteran status as outlined in the Auburn University Policy Regarding Prohibited Harassment of Students."