POLS 355 - Advanced Mock Trial Preparation

Credit(s): 2
This class teaches advanced skills in legal writing, advocacy and public speaking. Enrollment is limited to students who participate as members of the Tusculum Mock Trial Team and have previously completed POLS 255 and 256. This practical skills course, taught by a former prosecutor and a criminal defense attorney, consists of lectures, demonstrations, and on-your-feet practice in small groups. In this class, you will learn about the process of a trial, including the importance of evidence, witness statements, and arguments. Students will read and analyze a specific court case, draft legal documents, conduct mock trials, argue cases, and reach a verdict. Topics will cover criminal law, legal process, rights and responsibilities, and the justice process. This Fall course is 2 credits in length and requires enrollment in the Spring Mock Trial Competition class. The Spring class is one credit. Together, these courses provide 3 credit hours that can be applied toward your POLS/CRJU Major/Minor elective. This course may be repeated each year, and cumulative credits may count towards both the POLS and CRJU electives. This course will meet weekly as a traditional class in the Fall. Students will travel in February to a regional Mock Trial Competition and may be required to travel in April to a National Competition if the team qualifies.

Prerequisites: POLS-255 and POLS-256
Course Level: Undergraduate