The purpose of the tournament rules is to create a level playing field so all students can derive maximum educational benefit from participation. To that end, teacher and attorney/coaches are encouraged to emphasize the educational rather than the competitive aspect of the tournament.
Teams are responsible and accountable for knowing and abiding by all the tournament rules. Rules may not be waived even by mutual consent of the parties. Any violation of the rules could result in disciplinary action that may consist of forfeiture or disqualification for the offending team(s).
The Massachusetts Bar Association's annual Mock Trial Program is governed by the rules set forth in the Case Packet. Teams are asked to pay particular attention to the following:
Knowledge of the rules
Teams are responsible and accountable for knowing and abiding by all the tournament rules. Rules may not be waived even by mutual consent of the parties. Any violation of the rules could result in disciplinary action that may consist of forfeiture or disqualification for the offending team(s).
Courtroom courtesy/decorum
To allow students to experience firsthand how a real courtroom operates, the Massachusetts Bar Association schedules all trial enactments before attorney judges and sitting judges in courthouses, whenever possible. However, there are times when trials will be scheduled in libraries, town halls, etc. While mock trials are taking place, the venue is conducting its regular business. Accordingly, all students, teachers and spectators are expected to conduct themselves with maturity and decorum, and to treat host judges and all courthouse personnel with respect.
Trial space courtesy
Trial enactments are subject to the physical constraints of the individual courtrooms and venues. Students and spectators may not rearrange courtroom furniture or remove equipment from any other courthouse office unless they have received the permission of the court. Teams are responsible for restoring the courtroom to its original condition at the conclusion of the trial, ready for the next day's business.
Plagiarism
Arguments presented in court are expected to be the team's own effort. As with all academic work, plagiarism is prohibited.
Withdrawal/cancellations
The decision to participate in the Mock Trial Program is a serious commitment and should not be undertaken lightly. It is inconsiderate when a school withdraws from a trial and/or the tournament at the last minute after the other side has prepared carefully for the trial, made plans to leave school early and arranged for transportation.
Withdrawing on the day of the trial is also insensitive to not only Mock Trial Central staff but to the courts, which have agreed to clear courtroom space, and to the judges and attorneys who have volunteered to hear the cases. Teams are asked to consider carefully their decision to participate in the tournament and then honor their commitment.
Questions? Contact Mock Trial Central at mocktrial@massbar.org or (617) 338-0570.