On Feb. 4, the AV Mock Trial team competed in its first official competition. The team previously participated in multiple scrimmages against other Bay Area Mock Trial teams, but this was their first competition.
Here’s how it works. The team is split into two groups: Prosecution and Defense. Each side presents and argues a fictional case. The prosecution attempts to prosecute the defendant, while the defense works to prove innocence. The goal of Mock Trial is to simulate a real criminal trial.
“We travel using the Bart, and we go to a real court house in Oakland and then we have to prepare like a real trial, but according to our own Mock Trial facts and rules,” said Emma Walker (‘25).
A Realistic Competition Experience
Mock Trial competitions are unique compared to other clubs and organizations. The experience allows competitors to immerse themselves in a professional legal environment.
“There’s [not] a lot of competitions that have such a lifelike ability to give people the actual attorney experience,” said Mock Trial advisor and teacher coach Haley Baldwin.
Not only is Mock Trial unique in its function, but it is unique in its benefits as well. During the competition season, students argue cases in real courtrooms at the Alameda County Administration Building. Experienced litigators and judges evaluate performances, making the experience even more authentic.
“A lot of our scorers are actual litigators and attorneys…and our judges are actual judges… having these people that have real-life experience definitely gives us helpful feedback and experience as well,” said Mock Trial President and Pre-Trial Attorney Maria Zhang (‘25).
A Season of Preparation
The teams prepare for months leading up to the competition. From September to January, students write, rehearse, and meet extensively to refine their arguments.
“We do a lot of preparation for our competitions – we meet two times a week, once on Thursdays and once on Sundays online, and it’s definitely a lot of commitment and it’s great to see everyone working,” said Zhang.
Even with the intense workload, the team still fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. Whether during meetings, on the train, or in competition, the team always finds a way to bond.
“Mock trial is a super team-centered event and everyone needs to do their part to succeed. So this also helps you build a family, and I think that’s what makes it unique from other activities,” said Zhang.
Long-Term Skills and Growth
At the end of the day, Mock Trial not only provides professional experience and friendship – it develops long-lasting skills.
“They definitely provide a learning experience. As you’re preparing [for the trials] you get good skills, [such as] learning how to work diligently and efficiently, and to create statements that will help your side (Defense or Prosecution). While you’re on the stand, everyone gets [to] practice at quick thinking and debating,” said witness Emma Walker (‘25).
The competition season is both challenging and rewarding. While judges provide constructive criticism, they also encourage students to enjoy the experience.
“As we go throughout the season, people realize that the people there, such as judges and scorers, do wish the best for you and they want you to have fun so I think people do have a lot of fun by the end [of the season],” said Zhang.
