Our Mission
The American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) serves as the governing body for intercollegiate mock trial competition. Our mission is to create opportunities for students, alumni, and schools to come together in an environment that combines education with competition. Through immersive trial simulations, we aim to develop the next generation of great litigators, public speakers, and critical thinkers.
Who We Are
Founded in 1985 by Dean Richard Calkins of Drake Law School, AMTA has grown from a small educational experiment into a nationwide community of future leaders. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering an understanding of the legal system and the American jury trial. We believe that the best way to learn the law is to practice it, and we provide the platform for thousands of undergraduates to do just that every year.
What We Do
AMTA provides the structure, materials, and forum for collegiate mock trial across the United States. Each season, we release complex civil or criminal case materials that challenge students to grapple with difficult legal issues, evidentiary rules, and witness testimony.
We sanction and organize a tiered competition structure that includes:
- 32 Regional Tournaments held across the country.
- 8 Opening Round Championship Series (ORCS) tournaments.
- The National Championship Tournament, where the top teams compete for the ultimate title.
Currently, approximately 700 teams from over 400 universities and colleges compete in these tournaments, allowing over 7,300 undergraduate students to engage in high-level advocacy each academic year.
The AMTA Experience: Education Meets Competition
While the thrill of victory drives many teams, the heart of AMTA is education. Our competitions are designed to be more than just a game; they are a rigorous academic exercise.
- For Future Lawyers: Students gain a mastery of the Rules of Evidence, learn how to draft direct and cross-examinations, and practice the art of courtroom persuasion before actual judges and attorneys.
- For All Students: The skills honed in AMTA—confidence under pressure, analytical reasoning, active listening, and public speaking—are transferable to any career path.
- For Schools: We offer a unique avenue for institutions to showcase their academic excellence and provide high-impact learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Our Community
AMTA is more than a governing body; it is a lifelong network. Our community is built on the dedication of:
- Students who spend countless hours preparing cases and refining their performances.
- Coaches and Educators who mentor teams and guide student development.
Alumni and Volunteers who return to judge tournaments, write case materials, and serve on our Board of Directors, ensuring the tradition of excellence continues for future generations.