UTICA, N.Y. — Utica University is bringing together students from across the region for an American Mock Trial Association regional championship.
The event is taking place this weekend with 26 teams from 17 colleges and universities, including some from Canada and Pennsylvania, competing at Utica University.
Mock trial competitions are simulated trials where students act as attorneys and witnesses to argue a fictional case before a panel of judges made up of experienced attorneys and real judges.
Students prepare both sides of the argument and practice public speaking, critical thinking, courtroom argument, courtroom presentation and storytelling skills. Judges score teams on their case presentation, knowledge of the law and professionalism.
Utica University criminal justice professor Bernard Hyman said, “The real thing that they win is the experience of being part of this activity, and learning some life skills that are absolutely invaluable. People mistakenly think that everybody involved wants to go to law school. We have students that are from a variety of majors across the curriculum. The best thing I can tell you is the thing they win, public speaking skills, and’s critical thinking.”
Six of the 26 teams will move on to the opening round championship series. Winners from that round will compete in the American Mock Trial Association championship tournament in Washington D.C. in April.
Utica University is bringing together students from across the region for an American Mock Trial Association regional championship.