UMass Law Hosts Inaugural Mock Trial Competition Showcasing Student Advocacy Skills

UMass Law Hosts First-Ever Mock Trial Competition

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth’s School of Law (UMass Law) recently hosted its first-ever in-house mock trial competition from April 10–12. The event brought together over 50 students for a weekend of simulated courtroom proceedings, providing them with valuable hands-on experience in trial advocacy.

Hands-On Courtroom Experience

Organized by mock trial coaches Amy McNamee and Dana Sargent, the competition featured a bracket-style format where student teams advanced through multiple rounds of criminal trial simulations. Participants had the opportunity to argue both prosecution and defense positions, honing their skills in opening statements, witness examinations, and evidentiary objections.

Guest Judges and Winners

The competition’s semifinal and final rounds were presided over by distinguished guest judges, including Judge Joseph P. Harrington, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III, and Attorney Erin Steadman. First-year law students Max Couture and Sydney Brands emerged as the winners of the championship round, successfully arguing a first-degree assault and disorderly conduct case.

Student Testimonials

Max Couture expressed his satisfaction with the competition, stating, “It was incredibly rewarding to see the skills and training I’ve received come together in a realistic courtroom setting.” Sydney Brands also shared her experience, saying, “I learned so much through the experience of competing alongside my classmates.”

Recognition and Future Growth

Following the final round, an awards reception was held to celebrate the competitors and mark the success of the program’s inaugural year. UMass Law Dean Sam Panarella highlighted the institution’s commitment to preparing practice-ready attorneys and praised the students for their confident advocacy skills.

Rebecca Moor, the director of advocacy programs at UMass Law, emphasized the value of immersive advocacy training, stating, “Mock trial gives students the opportunity to develop and refine essential courtroom skills in a supportive but challenging environment.”

Practical Training Program

The in-house mock trial competition is part of UMass Law’s nationally-recognized practical training program, ensuring that all students have internship or clinic placements to engage directly with the practice of law before graduation.

For more information about UMass Law and its programs, visit their website.

Contact:
David James
Phone: 508-999-8478
Email: [email protected]

Posted Tuesday, April 14, 2026