Judges

Collegiate mock trial programs compete across the country as part of the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA). Every August, AMTA releases a case that contains witness statements and pieces of evidence. The case switches between a criminal and civil case each year. Teams spend nearly the entire school year analyzing this case, writing material, and polishing their presentation to compete their case against other universities.

A mock trial round consists of opening statements, a plaintiff's or prosecution's case-in-chief with three witnesses, a defense's case-in-chief with three witnesses, and closing arguments. 

Judges fill out ballots throughout the trial that rank each part from 1-10. They will score each opening and closing statement, directing attorneys, crossing attorneys, and witnesses for their performance on direct examination and cross-examination. There will also be sections available for judges to leave comments for the attorneys and witnesses about their performance. 

There will be an opportunity to speak with the two teams after the trial is completed, during which judges can introduce themselves and give teams notes about their content and performance. 

This year, we will be arguing a criminal case!

The Illinois Trial Team is hosting our 18th Annual Illini Invite on October 11-12, 2025, on our campus! We are looking for anyone in the legal field (whether that be a lawyer, judge, paralegal, or law student) or anyone with mock trial experience to judge our tournament. If you are interested in judging, please fill out this form.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Axel Diehl at illinoistrialteam.tc@gmail.com!