Mock Trial Program

Inaugurated in 2009-2010, the University of Pittsburgh School of Law Mock Trial Program is coordinated by adjunct mock trial coach Jennifer Satler. The program is the primary means through which the school selects the students who will serve on its Mock Trial Team and compete at each of three interscholastic competitions taking place during the spring semester:

• The Allegheny Academy of Trial Lawyers Mock Trial Competition
• The AAJ Student Trial Advocacy Competition
• The Texas Young Lawyers Association National Trial Competition

Trying out for the Team

The program seeks at the beginning of each academic year to identify and develop talent for trial advocacy from among the second-year and third-year classes. Students selected through open tryouts become members of the Mock Trial Team that then trains with Coach Satler on a regular schedule. From among the team members, Coach Satler will select the groups that will represent the school at each competition. Each team member will serve as an attorney or a witness for at least one competition.

Service on the Mock Trial Team does not foreclose competing in the Murray S. Love Mock Trial Competition, though scheduling conflicts are possible. Subject to applicable maximums, team members may earn academic credit for their service.

Continuity and Experience: 1Ls, 2Ls, and 3Ls

The Mock Trial Program values continuity and experience. Therefore, second-year students on the team are encouraged to try out again as third-year students or to contribute in some other capacity. In addition, the program seeks to identify interested first-year students who are willing to serve in a limited, supportive capacity for each year’s team (e.g., as witnesses or timekeepers for practice rounds). Because of the paramount importance of their academic course load, first-year students cannot compete in moot court activities.