Coaches & Judges Interest Form

The University of Maryland Mock Trial Program is always looking for attorneys and former mock trialers to help coach the team or judge our practice trials as we try to win our sixth American Mock Trial Association national championship.

Maryland Mock Trial introduces students to the principles of trial advocacy through experiential learning and prepares students to participate in intercollegiate competitions sponsored by the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA). The program consists of five different teams of 7 to 10 students each that compete throughout the country. In preparation for competitions, the program holds weekly team meetings and in-house practice trials.

If you would like to help out but are unable to commit to weekly meetings, we still want to hear from you! We are also looking for judges, attorneys (not just trial attorneys), or former mock trialers to be guest judges for our practice trials.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess:

  • Passion for trial advocacy and/or mock trial

  • Courtroom trial experience (substantial mock trial experience may be substituted)

  • Experience coaching or competing in collegiate or law school mock trial

  • Excellent public speaking skills

  • Desire to work with and mentor students with diverse learning styles and backgrounds

Responsibilities

  • Teach trial advocacy techniques, courtroom procedures, professional decorum, and the rules of evidence

  • Lead discussions on case analysis, theory development, and trial strategy

  • Teach students how to write and conduct direct examinations, cross examinations, opening statements, and closing arguments

  • Develop students’ skills in public speaking and critical thinking

  • Supervise students during team meetings and judge in-house practice trials

  • Provide feedback on student's performance and written material

  • Travel with students to intercollegiate competitions (Lodging will be paid for by UMD)

  • Promote a collegial and inclusive environment within the Program

  • Act as a resource for student questions about law school and the legal profession

The University of Maryland is committed to increasing the diversity of the campus community. Candidates who have experience working with a diverse range of faculty, staff, and students, and who can contribute to the culture of inclusiveness are encouraged to identify their experiences in these areas.