MSU Law Hosts Undergrad Mock Trial Competition

MSU College of Law was the setting for the Spartan Mock Trial Great Lakes Gauntlet Invitational during the weekend of January 13-14. Heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures did not deter students from multiple universities across Michigan, the University of Maryland, and Canada from demonstrating their legal prowess and competitive spirit.

Students argued a fictional case in front of a panel of experienced law professionals, who volunteered to serve as judges. With prepared briefs, arguments, and positions, students inhabited various roles throughout the duration of the competition, giving them simulated experience in the shoes of plaintiffs, defendants, and witnesses.

Michigan State Mock Trial (MSUMT) is a popular public speaking and debate team at MSU which boasts a membership of 35 Spartans from 20+ majors, many majoring in non-law fields. Each year, the MSUMT’s four teams build a full legal case in which they determine everything from cross examinations to closing statements. MSUMT then competes against teams across the country, including universities such as Yale, University of Michigan, and Ohio State University with the goal of advancing to Regionals/ORCS and, later, the National Championship Tournament.

MSU Law Dean Sant’Ambrosio preparing to welcome students

Kicking off the competition was MSU Law Dean Michael Sant’Ambrogio. “This is an opportunity not only to show off your legal skills, but to form valuable connections with your peers. Embrace opportunities, celebrate achievements, and never forget the impact your work will have on the lives of others.”

While many students engaged actively and diligently in the spirit of competition, those same students exhibited an infectious level of enthusiasm and camaraderie whenever they could. This was exactly the kind of atmosphere Mock Trial Vice President and Tournament Director RJ Schoen was hoping to cultivate.

“During my first two years of mock trial, I wasn’t focused on building friendships with competitors,” said Ms. Schoen. “But this year, I’ve had the opportunity to meet some really great people and learn from them, so I really hope that teams take the opportunity to do the same.”