Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is mock trial?
A: Mock Trial is a team-based speech competition that combines elements of law, speech, debate, and theatre in a simulation of courtroom procedure.
Q: Do I need mock trial experience to try out?
A: Nope! Many of our incredibly talented members (including both of our 2026 All-American Attorneys!) never did mock trial before joining CMT. We design our auditions so that no one needs experience to try out.
Q: Is everyone in mock trial pre-law?
A: Definitely not! While some of our members are pre-law, many join to build performance and critical thinking skills, which are applicable far beyond a career in law. Some members also compete just for fun!
Q: Is the audition process competitive? How many new members do you accept?
A: As one of the top mock trial programs in the nation, CMT receives a large number of applications each fall. Typically we accept roughly a dozen new members. Don’t let this dissuade you from auditioning! You do not need to be one of the top 12 public speakers at Cal to become a part of CMT. You don’t even need any mock trial or public speaking experience! More than anything, we are looking for a group of new members with diverse strengths to fill the many competitive roles of mock trial.
Q: How is college mock trial different from high school mock trial?
A: College mock trial gives students a lot more leeway to be creative! Here are a few examples:
The trials are longer and more complex.
There is no competitive pretrial role.
We choose our own witness line-up.
We can create demonstrations to illustrate concepts for the jury.
Witnesses have more freedom to add character to their roles.
Q: Does Cal Mock Trial accept transfer/upperclassman applicants?
A: Absolutely! We accept transfer applicants and Berkeley undergrads from any year. In our 2023 recruitment cycle, 15% of our incoming class were transfer students, and 20% of our class were second and third-year Berkeley students.
Q: Are there different teams based on experience? Do new members get to compete?
A: Our program has four teams competing every year: A, B, Blue, and Gold. Every member has the opportunity to compete as either an attorney, witness, or both on one of our four teams. New members will have a competitive role from day one and receive guidance from team captains, coaches, and fellow competitors to learn and grow from each role.