Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Mock Trial Rule 3.6.A and F state that exhibits on one page in the official packet may not be separated. In this year’s packet, Exhibit A (the subject of the pre-trial motion) is on the same page as Exhibit B. Will the SD Committee be separating those two exhibits in the set it provides to the teams for trial?
The rules prohibit any separation of exhibits. Therefore, the Mock Trial Committee will not be separating the exhibits we provide to the teams for the competition.
In the Pretrial Motion, the case packet mentions United States v. Matlock (pg. 20, lines 12-21) and United States v. Karo (pg. 20, lines 22-26). For the purposes of the Pretrial Motion, are Pretrial Attorneys allowed to use these two cases in their arguments?
Yes. Please see the “Pretrial Sources” section of the case packet (pg. 22, lines 2-7).
There is a defense witness (Jean Kronstadt) in the case who is using foreign language words in their testimony. In working with the students on building this character, can the students use a French accent when speaking English in order to play the character as someone from France who has lived in California for a number of years?
Rule 3.2(M) states in relevant part, “…teams should concentrate on realistically presenting the trial, with witnesses wearing appropriate courtroom attire and using their normal speaking voices, with no artificial accents. Portrayals or racial, ethnic, and gender stereotypes are inappropriate and are not allowed.” Therefore, students playing the role of witness should not adopt any accent that differs from their normal speaking voice. In their testimony, if a student chooses to state words or phrases that are in a foreign language, the student may attempt to correctly pronounce the word or phrase. However, students should be careful to distinguish their pronunciation of words or phrases in another language from an artificially created accent for the rest of their testimony.
What is the deadline for case questions for questions to be submitted to Teach Democracy to be considered for errata?
The deadline for case questions to be submitted to Teach Democracy for consideration for errata is December 12. Please send any case questions to sdmocktrial@gmail.com.
What is the best way to form a successful Mock Trial Team?
The key to forming a successful team is providing a positive, academic-oriented experience for participating students. Participation in Mock Trial should be an experience that allows students to cultivate their appreciation of the justice system, while recognizing the personal responsibilities of citizenship.
Each team must have a minimum of eight students and must not exceed twenty-five participants. The team may be composed of any students currently eligible for high school-sponsored extra-curricular activities.
Another key to success is gathering eager and committed team members. An ability to work well with others is key. Participation in Mock Trial requires a significant commitment from students, Teacher Sponsors, and Attorney Coaches. The hours can be long, but the experience is always stimulating. Students bond deeply, support each other, and become loyal friends.
Do videos exist to assist students to prepare?
Teach Democracy has created a series of videos to assist students in preparing for the Mock Trial Competition. Video topics include rules of evidence discussing hearsay, objections, relevance, and many other topics. You may look for these helpful videos and other materials on the Resources page.
How do I dress for success in the Mock Trial Competition?
Students are asked to wear courtroom appropriate attire. However, no student is required to purchase any specific attire in order to participate.
Some students select clothing they already have (such as a shirt, tie, blazer or jacket, dress, skirt or pantsuit), or they borrow such clothing from others (friends, relatives or other team supporters). However, keep in mind that no clothing should identify any particular school as school identities are withheld from scorers and judges.
Any suggestions on how practices should run?
While there is no “best” way to practice, there are a few details to think about while organizing team practices. Clear communication of objectives, organization, and time management are all very important to remember while planning practices. For more information on suggestions for practicing, please review the Team In A Box materials located on the resources page.