A
mock trial is an act or imitation
trial. It is similar to a
moot court, but mock trials simulate lower-court trials, while moot court simulates
appellate court hearings.
Attorneys preparing for a real trial might use a mock trial consisting of volunteers as role players to test theories or experiment with each other. Mock trial is also the name of an
extracurricular program in which
students participate in rehearsed trials to learn about the legal system in a competitive manner. Interscholastic mock trials take place on all levels including
primary school,
middle school,
high school,
college, and
law school. Mock trial is often taught in conjunction with a course in
Trial Advocacy or takes place as an after school enrichment activity.