Pre-Law and Mock Trial Summer Academy

Learn about the law as part of an immersive trial experience!

Step into the courtroom and sharpen your advocacy skills in our immersive Pre-Law and Mock Trial Academy for high school students. Taught by a distinguished member of the Rutgers law faculty, this program is designed for students who have an interest in the law and government, whether considering a career in the legal field or participating in mock trial competition, or those who wish to hone their public speaking and advocacy skills.

Over the course of the program, students will learn the basics of civil and criminal law, sources of law, and the creation of law through interactive lessons, courtroom visits, guest lectures, and mock trials. Students will also be exposed to the many diverse career opportunities available in the legal field.

Students can choose to participate in one-week or two-weeks of the program, as each week will tackle a different case.

• Week I: Civil Case
  • Learn the fundamentals of trial practice while tackling a real-world civil case.
  • Students will develop core skills in case analysis, witness examination, and persuasive argumentation.
• Week II: Criminal Case
  • Put your skills to the test in a high-stakes criminal trial.
  • This week builds on the basics and introduces advanced strategies for those attending both weeks, including specialized breakout sessions on expert techniques and courtroom tactics.

Whether you are new to the law and mock trial or looking to elevate your performance, this academy offers immersive and collaborative experience in the law, mentorship from expert legal professionals, and the excitement of seeing advocacy in action. Discover what it takes to win in a courtroom!