How Much Time Does Mock Trial Require?

The competition season for UARK Mock Trial is from September to April. Each of our teams practice at least two times a week and those practices typically last about two hours (4 hours of practice/per week). The specific days and times each team practices is determined each semester based on member availability and class schedules. However, it is common for attorney-witness pairings to meet and work on mock trial outside of those scheduled team practice times.

Can I be Involved in Mock Trial and Other Extracurricular Activities?

Absolutely! A large majority of our members have other commitments outside of the UARK Mock Trial Program, including but not limited to on campus jobs, extracurricular activities, other RSOs, campus tutoring, and internships. Specifically, we have had past and present members be highly involved in National Model United Nations, Pre-Law Society, Speech & Debate, Associated Student Government, Greek Life, UARK Tutors, OFA, and Students with Refugees, to name a few.

Do I Need Mock Trial Experience to Join?

Absolutely not! More than half of our members had no prior mock trial experience before they join UARK Mock Trial Program. We have an amazing leadership team and coaches that ensure each member has an abundance of resources and is taught everything you will need to be successful by the end of the fall semester.

Does Everyone in Mock Trial Want to go to Law School?

No! It is typically assumed that everyone in Mock Trial wants to either become an attorney or is only interested in pursing a career in law; however, this isn't the case. Although mock trial is a great stepping stone into the field of law, it is also the perfect place to perfect public speaking skills, presentation skills, and critical thinking skills. Members of the UARK Mock Trial Program have had a wide range of majors including political science, theatre, education, accounting, economics, finance, and criminology.

How Do I Join?

The UARK Mock Trial Program holds tryouts at the beginning of every fall semester, typically during the second week of classes. We will hold informational sessions over zoom during the first week of classes as well as during the week of tryouts where we will explain the specifics of the tryout process. The standard tryout includes a pre-written direct examination of a witness in trial where you will play the witness, and a three to five minute speech with a prompt that changes every year.

How Can I Prepare for the Tryout?

Once you have the tryout materials, the best thing you can do is prepare and learn what you are given, showcase your natural public speaking ability, and remember to have fun with your audition. We are all undergraduate students and we love to see how creative people can be each year during their tryout. Watching a great witness character is just as entertaining as a powerful and articulate speech. Our leadership team is also readily available for anyone who would like to meet and have help preparing for the tryout. If you would be interested in meeting with a leadership team member or have any questions at all contact us at uarkmocktrial@gmail.com.

Is it Free to be in UARK Mock Trial?

All of our members pay a set dues amount each semester. These dues help our program cover the cost of transportation, lodging, and AMTA fees. Our program stands by the policy that "dues will never be a reason as to why someone could not compete" in our program. If you have any questions or concerns about dues, please feel free to contact us at uarkmocktrial@gmail.com.

I'm a Sophomore/Junior/Senior, is it too Late to Join?

It is never too late to join mock trial! The UARK Mock Trial program welcomes all class years and all levels of experience.