State Bar of Wisconsin

Mock Trial

Bring the legal system and due process to life for your students!
Since its inception in 1983, the Wisconsin High School Mock Trial Program has brought our legal system to life for thousands of students. Using facts and case materials developed by Wisconsin attorneys, students gain a new and deeper understanding and respect for due process as they develop their arguments and build their cases.

The mock trial experience helps students:

• Learn how the rule of law applies
• See the role of legal experts in the field
• Gain insight into their own beliefs and behaviors

Real structure

A mock trial is structured like a real courtroom trial and follows many of the same rules. Students have the opportunity to gain experience in several ways:

• Analyzing and preparing a case
• Presenting as a witness
• Arguing their assigned role
• Receiving input and feedback from attorneys and judges who volunteer with the program 

Educational goal

• Practice critical analysis, public speaking, communication, and advocacy skills
• Use teamwork, collaboration, and cooperation among a diverse group of students, teachers, and others
• Explore the principle of equal justice for all, and gain an awareness of current legal issues
• Experience an exchange of ideas among students from all areas of Wisconsin in a rewarding and memorable experience
• Gain self-confidence, strength of character, sportsmanship, and maturity

For more information on the Wisconsin High School Mock Trial Program, please email Marsha Varvil-Weld at mvarvil-weld@wisbar.org, or call (608) 250-6191. 

You're invited!
Once again, high schools from across Wisconsin are invited to send students to compete in the annual Mock Trial Tournament.

Important Dates

• Entry deadline without late fee
  November 13, 2009
• Final entry deadline
  November 20, 2009
• Drop deadline
  January 8, 2010
• Regional Tournaments
  February 13, 2010
• State Semi-Finals and Finals
  March 14-15, 2010
• National Championship
  May 6-8, 2010 in Philadelphia, PA