Why Join?

Have Fun

First and foremost, Mock Trial is about having a good time. From the courtroom to the Chinese restaurant, everyone has a great time.

Meet People

Tufts Mock Trial is a great place for undergraduate students of all classes to make friends that will last long after the tournament seasons.

Travel

We attend invitational competitions at other schools in the fall and larger competitions in the spring, taking us around the country together.

Win Trophies

Tournaments are not all about winning, but we can not ignore the gleaming trophies, medals, and plaques that come with competing against rival colleges and universities...and beating them.

Learn About Law

College Mock Trial is based on the Federal Rules of Evidence and provides a phenomenal opportunity to gain a better understanding of these rules and the reasons underlying them. You will be learning about the American Legal System through practical application.

Improve Your Skills

Mock Trial is a great arena to hone your public speaking abilities and improve your confidence speaking in front of others. Additionally, members learn to think critically and analytically, skills that can be applied outside of the mock courtroom.

Tryout Information

What do I have to do?

Tufts Mock Trial Tryouts differ slightly year to year, but candidates are generally required to act in both an attorney and witness role, as well as perform a public speaking exercise. Details and other information will be given to all candidates about one week before tryouts take place. Be sure to attend our General Interest Meeting to get on the mailing list, or contact us online.

Do I need prior Mock Trial experience?

No! In fact, some of our most successful members have had no High School Mock Trial experience. We will explain how to prepare for tryouts, and current members are always willing to provide advice as you prepare.

What do you look for during tryouts?

1) Strong presence and public speaking ability

2) Ability to think critically about the positive and negative aspects of the witness you are tasked with examining or portraying

3) Acting ability as a witness and the skills to "become" a character

4) Motivated, committed, hard-working individuals with an enthusiasm for learning

5) Critical thinking and the ability to "think on your feet"

It is the philosophy of TMT that the rules and procedures can be easily taught, but analytical thinking and courtroom presence cannot. Therefore, we look for individuals who demonstrate these qualities, not necessarily those that have prior knowledge of Mock Trial proceedings. That being said, such knowledge will not hurt your chances during tryouts.

Ultimately, the tryout process should be viewed as an opportunity for you to demonstrate why you think you deserve a spot on the Tufts Mock Trial Team. But most importantly, your tryout should be fun!