ABOUT
The McLean High School Mock Trial Team is one of the most prestigious Mock Trial Teams in Virginia. Coached by experienced lawyers, counsels, and DOJ prosecutors, we have placed first in Regionals three times in a row.
The McLean High School Mock Trial Team is one of the most prestigious Mock Trial Teams in Virginia. Coached by experienced lawyers, counsels, and DOJ prosecutors, we have placed first in Regionals three times in a row.
Our Achievements
KEEP SCROLING
01
Regional Awards
1ST IN REGION
02
State Awards
2ND IN STATE
03
Attorney/Witness Awards
4 BEST AWARDS
Overview
What is Mock Trial?
Mock Trial is a competitive academic activity where students simulate fictional trials while applying real legal frameworks. Teams prepare both sides of a legal case, prosecution/plaintiff and defense, developing arguments, examining witnesses, and presenting arguments in front of real lawyers and judges. McLean High competes under the VLRE High School Mock Trial Program.
Mock Trial is a competitive academic activity where students simulate real courtroom trials. Teams prepare both sides of a legal case, prosecution/plaintiff and defense, developing arguments, examining witnesses, and presenting arguments in front of real lawyers and judges. McLean High competes under the VLRE Mock Trial Program.
McLean Mock Trial
Yearly Competitions Process
Every year, McLean Mock Trial follows a general schedule to prepare for the Regional, State, and National Competitions.
SEP.
Tryouts
September marks the start of the Mock Trial season. The case file is released, and tryouts are hosted at McLean. Every year, 20-30 people tryout for 3-4 positions. Tryouts decisions are decided by the officers.
OCT.
Preparation Starts
Tryout results are announced. Roles and positions in the case are emailed to members. Practice starts online, usually with getting familiar with one's roles and developing a case theory.
NOV.
Preparation Continues
In-person preparation begins and work intensifies. Members will practice their cross and direct examinations that they have created.
FEB - MAR
State/Regional Competitions
Regionals are usually held in Early February, with the top half of each region qualifying for States. The State Competition is held in Richmond. The winner of States goes to Nationals.
01
Why Mock Trial
Mock Trial strengthens public speaking, quick thinking, and leadership skills. Mock Trial is also highly beneficial to anyone wanting a career in law. It introduces participants to legal principles, such as the rules of evidence, that will be used throughout a career in law.
Benefits of Mock Trial
Public Speaking
Critical Thinking
Teamwork
Legal Literacy
Leadership
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Tight-knit group of super dedicated people
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Rare opportunity for legal experience in high school
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Super unique combination of theatre and debate
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Trip to Richmond
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Bragging rights
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One of McLean High's Most Competitive Clubs
Other Reasons to Join
Our Coaches
Our Coaches
Coach Eli
Partner
Coach Kate
Partner
Coach Drew
Partner
Our Journey in Photos
2025 State Competition
2024 State Competition
2023 State Competition
