This month, over 325 accomplished high school students from 18 states, D.C., and Ontario will gather in downtown Philadelphia for the Empire Philly National Mock Trial Competition at the Center for Criminal Justice (1301 Filbert Street). The program, run by the nonprofit Empire Mock Trial, provides students with a hands-on experience in litigation and advocacy, and the competition this year features a topical case about a university professor alleging a First Amendment violation.
Students and alumni of the Thomas R. Kline School of Law are invited to get involved as volunteer judges or jurors. No prior advocacy or litigation experience is required—anyone can participate and support these extraordinary students.
Event Details:
Dates: Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28
Report Times: 9:15 AM and 2:30 PM
Duration: Each trial lasts no more than 3 hours
Location: Center for Criminal Justice, 1301 Filbert Street, Philadelphia
Why Volunteer?
Engage with a fascinating case on free speech, protests, and university governance.
Serve the community by supporting youth education.
Enjoy catered meals and complimentary hot breakfast/pasta/pizza.
Network with attorneys, judges, and law students from across the region (11 sitting judges already registered!).
Participate in oral arguments and trials where your decisions impact the proceedings.
Attorneys can earn free ethics CLE credits.
How to Register:
Email: judge@empiremocktrial.org
Text: 917-426-3631
Sign up via the Empire Mock Trial website
Questions?
Contact Empire Mock Trial at judge@empiremocktrial.org or 917-426-3631.