HOW TO JOIN

2025-2026 season

TRYouts

We typically hold tryouts for the season in early September. To receive tryout materials, the sign-up sheet, or to ask any questions, please contact our VP of Recruitment and Internal Affairs, Dhilan Vibhakar at dnv15@case.edu.

Stay up to date by following our Instagram & TikTok (@cwrumocktrial)!

frequently Asked questions

What is the time commitment?

We practice at least two nights during the week, with each practice lasting 2–3 hours. We typically attend around three tournaments per semester (on weekends). Outside of practice, team members also dedicate time to working with their partners or independently, especially in the weeks leading up to competitions. While mock trial is a major commitment and priority for our team, our members are also actively involved in other areas of campus life, including student government, Greek life, and various student organizations.

WHAT ARE TRYOUTS LIKE?

You'll receive a tryout packet with four short sections (each 2–3 minutes long) that assess different skills Mock Trial helps develop like public speaking, creativity, and critical thinking. Tryouts begin with a brief meeting with our Executive Board, where you’ll introduce yourself and learn more about the team. Then, you’ll move on to the main tryout, where our coaches will observe and evaluate your performance.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

When observing your tryout, our coaches are considering your public speaking skills, your ability to think on your feet, your commitment, and your confidence, all of which show potential for success in Mock Trial. We expect students to come to tryouts prepared, but we do not expect perfection! Ultimately, our goal is to find individuals with potential and a willingness to work hard, learn, and contribute to the strength of the team.

do you take students that aren't freshmen?

Yes! While most of our new members tend to be first-years, we’re open to students from any class year. What matters most is your potential, commitment, and ability to contribute to the team.

AM I REQUIRED TO HAVE HIGH SCHOOL MOCK TRIAL EXPERIENCE?

Not at all! Many members of the team started participating in mock trial in college.

How much does joining mock trial cost?

Nothing! One of the great things about CWRUMT is that we don’t charge dues to be part of the team. Travel and hotel expenses for tournaments are fully covered by the program. The only required personal expense is a suit, which serves as our competition uniform; just like athletes wear gear, we wear suits in the courtroom. Members are also responsible for their own meals while traveling. That said, we never want finances to be a barrier. If purchasing a suit or covering travel meals would be a hardship, please reach out to one of the coaches—we’re happy to help.

What is travel like?

We typically travel by van or car, as most tournaments are within an eight-hour drive (though many are shorter). In recent seasons, we’ve competed in cities like Columbus, Chicago, Ann Arbor, and Buffalo, as well as farther sites like Georgia, Connecticut, Florida, Wisconsin, and New York City. Students typically leave on Friday and return Sunday night, though some tournaments may require Thursday/Monday travel. Every member travels to the tournaments they’re assigned to compete in.