Mock Trial

 

About Our Team

Lucem Accipe Ut Reddas
“Receive the light that you may give it forth.” 

The Fresno State Mock Trial Program is a competitive organization that promotes the ideals of law and the judicial system through participation in intercollegiate competitions known as Mock Trials. Unlike most extracurricular programs, Mock Trial can also be taken as a three unit criminology course.

During competition, students take on the roles of witnesses and attorneys, performing opening statements, closing arguments, and direct and cross examinations before a panel of scoring judges. The entire academic year centers around a single civil or criminal case released by the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA).

Each trial simulates a real jury trial and consists of two teams, one representing the plaintiff or prosecution and the other representing the defense. Teams present opening statements, examine witnesses, and deliver closing arguments, and are scored on their ability to present a persuasive and professionally delivered case theory. Attorneys and witnesses must think quickly and adapt as the trial unfolds, making each round fast paced, engaging, and competitive.

In and out of the courtroom, Fresno State Mock Trial strives to carry forward the principle of “Lucem Accipe Ut Reddas” by holding ourselves to a high standard of preparation, professionalism, and teamwork in everything we do.

Our History

Fresno State first entered Mock Trial competition in 2005, and since then has steadily grown in both size and reputation. In 2014 and 2017, the program was one of only 48 teams selected to compete at the National Championship Tournament.

The team was founded by Professor Harvey Wallace and Gordon Park, two highly respected attorneys with deep commitments to Fresno State. Sadly, Professor Wallace passed away in 2007, shortly after the American Mock Trial Association granted Fresno State the privilege of hosting its first Regional Tournament. Following his passing, Gordon Park joined Fresno State as a professor to ensure the program’s continuation.

In February 2008, the team honored Professor Wallace by hosting the Harvey Wallace Northern California Regional in his memory. Years later, in 2017, when Fresno State returned to the National Championship Tournament, the team competed in the “Harvey Wallace Division,” one of two divisions named by AMTA to recognize influential figures in the Mock Trial community.

The Experience 

Beyond learning legal procedure and strategy and developing strong public speaking skills, team members travel across the state and country to compete in invitationals and tournaments. Each competition brings a new environment, new challenges, and the chance to test your skills against other top programs. Along the way, members build lasting friendships and meaningful professional connections that extend beyond the courtroom. Our team has competed everywhere from UCLA to Yale University and across the country in between. Reach out to a team executive or coach to learn more about why Mock Trial is one of the most engaging and rewarding experiences at Fresno State.

Prospective Team Members

We are always looking for new members, so whether you are planning to pursue a career in law, interested in dramatic arts, or simply want to learn about legal procedure in a fun and immersive environment, we encourage you to reach out. Anyone with an interest in the legal field or acting is a great fit for the team. While prior experience in debate or drama can be helpful, it is not required. All necessary skills can be developed through dedication, discipline, and a strong time commitment to learning the case material and practicing consistently. During competition, members take on the roles of attorneys and witnesses, both of which require preparation, focus, and the ability to remain confident and professional under pressure. Although Mock Trial is highly rewarding, it also demands hard work and consistency from every team member.

Who Can Join?

Any Fresno State student is welcome to join the Mock Trial team. However, due to American Mock Trial Association regulations, there are a limited number of roster spots available for official tournament competition. Intramural competitions remain open to all members, and teams regularly rotate participants, giving everyone the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills. In addition, some of the team may consist of students from nearby community colleges, allowing those without access to their own Mock Trial programs to participate, with approval from the Executive Board and the team’s advisor.

If Mock Trial sounds like something you might be interested in, we encourage you to reach out to our recruitment chair or one of our coaches. Practices are held twice a week in the Science II Building, on Wednesdays from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

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