13 Mini Mock Trial

An activity by Street Law, Inc.

Number of participants

This activity works well with up to 30 students. The design ensures that every student will be involved in the trial.

Procedures

1. Introduce the mini mock trial by telling the students about the facts of the case. You might distribute a written fact pattern for students to read.  Facts for a mini mock trial should be simplified.  The facts may include witness statements, but there will not typically be witnesses present at the mini-trials.
2. Make sure students understand the facts.
3. Describe the mini mock trial process:

• • Students representing the plaintiff or prosecution will make a short opening statement.
  • Students representing the defense will make a short opening statement.
  • Students representing the plaintiff will present their case to the judge, explaining the facts, their witness testimony, and arguments in favor of their case. (If you decide to include one or more witnesses, allow for a simple direct and cross examination here.)
  • Students representing the defense will present their case in the same manner
  • Plaintiff makes a short closing statement.
  • Defense makes a short closing statement.
  • Judge renders a decision.

4. Divide students into trial teams of 2–3. If you do not allow witness testimony, each team should have two lawyers.  If you do allow witness testimony, each team should have 1–2 lawyers and a witness.  Assign each group to represent either the plaintiff or defense, making sure that you have an equal number of teams for each side.
5. Have the prep groups discuss their side’s case, noting the key facts that support them. Have the students draft an opening statement and list the facts to describe and points to make during the presentation of their case.  If they will be hearing from a witness, have them prepare direct and cross examination questions. Allow at least 25 minutes for this stage.
6. Create trial groups—one plaintiff team and one defense team—and set each group at a table or set of chairs.  Add a facilitator to each team to serve as the judge.
7. Let the trials begin simultaneously.  Have judges keep the trials on track and moving along.   Allow 15 minutes for the mini-trials.
8. Once all trials are concluded, ask each judge to announce their decision.
9. Ask students:  What was it like to argue your case? Did you feel that your side should have won? What was the most challenging part of this exercise?  The easiest?  Which part did you like best?  What were some of the other side’s best arguments?
10. Tell students about the similarities and differences between their mini trials and real trials.
11. Take questions.

Mini Mock Trial Word doc

License and restrictions

This license allows reusers to reproduce, distribute, perform, and display the material for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.

The reusers will not modify, adapt or create any derivative works from Street Law Inc. material.