About Us

About Us

The Cal Poly Mock Trial Program is composed of the introductory mock trial class (PLS 308), the Cal Poly Mock Trial Association, and the teams. All team members are required to take Prof. Sabado’s mock trial class prior to joining the teams. PLS 308 teaches students the basic trial lawyering skills, including criminal and civil law, rules on presenting evidence in court, how to question witnesses properly and courtroom demeanor. The class is taught in a law school-like environment using the Socratic Method. This method results in college level students rivaling the courtroom skills of licensed attorneys. The class is offered only once a year during the fall quarter.

Students who perform well in class are invited to join the teams that will represent Cal Poly at the regional and national competitions during the winter quarter. The teams begin to form during the fall quarter, consisting mainly of veteran members. Students enrolled in the class who have expressed interest in joining the teams, demonstrated a clear commitment and have performed exceedingly well are often offered the privilege of joining the teams before conclusion of the class.

Team practices are held three to four times per week, including at least one weekend day. Each year, our teams travel to compete in invitational tournaments across the country. In the past few years, our teams have attended invitational tournaments at UCLA, University of Pennsylvania, Arizona State University and the University of Missouri. We regularly compete against nationally renowned schools such as Duke University, Stanford University, University of Southern California and the University of California.

The Cal Poly Mock Trial Association is the student organization that facilitates and supports mock trial recruiting, practice, travel, and funding. Its executive board members are chosen from among the team members who have performed very well in past competitions and have demonstrated leadership.

For more information, email us.