In mock trial, we, as a team, receive a made-up case by the America Mock Trial Association (AMTA). The case alternates between criminal and civil with this year’s being a criminal case of arson. The case takes place in a fictitious state called Midlands and has made up characters, rules of evidence, case law, and evidence. We use all these tools to create a prosecution and defense case. We then compete as either plaintiff or defense against another school at the various tournaments we attend.
There are three attorneys and three witnesses for each side. The attorneys are all responsible for a direct and cross-examination. One attorney does an opening statement, one does the pre-trial matters, and one does the closing argument. Attorneys also must argue the rules of evidence and case law by objecting to opposing counsel and fighting off objections from opposing counsel.
Witnesses must know their affidavit/statements inside in out. This position is a great opportunity to use your acting skills. They will testify on direct, cross-examination, and must avoid saying things that can lead to their impeachment and maintain their character throughout. Some witness types include detectives, experts, main defendants/plaintiff characters, and the side witnesses that have included crazy characters in the past such as a social media influencer, band manager, stalker, and plenty of other insane characters to play.
Thank you,
Cadence
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Cadence Ciesielski (She/Her/Hers)
Kansas State University ’22
Philosophy | Spanish | Pre-Law
Pre-Law Ambassadors | President
Student Worker | Office of Pre-Law Advising
cadebai99@k-state.edu | (316) 993.7149