Our Approach

The Challenge

It is critical that young people develop the knowledge, skills and empathy needed to become capable citizens in a world that grows more interconnected, yet divided. We believe it is necessary to instill in students an appreciation for the role of citizenship, analytical reasoning, and civil discourse in a healthy democracy.

Our Mission

At Empire Mock Trial, we are committed to meeting this challenge headon by organizing intellectually rigorous and culturally enriching mock trial programs for high school students that educate, connect, and empower them to be more compassionate and capable citizens.

 

Educate

We educate by giving students the opportunity to:

  • Acquire knowledge and build skills fundamental to citizenship

  • Learn about the inner workings of our legal system and bedrock Constitutional principles, such as due process and the presumption of innocence

  • Learn how to separate fact from opinion, and how to craft a compelling argument

  • Study pressing issues of our time and consider how our laws interact with them, such as white nationalism and police brutality (read more about Our Cases)

  • Learn how to speak publicly, think critically, argue extemporaneously, and collaborate effectively by preparing and litigating their case

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Connect

We connect students by exposing them to:

  • A group of peers who come from different parts of the world, which in turn offers students a glimpse of  new cultures and perspectives

  • Knowledgeable attorneys and judges who share insight on how students can enter the legal profession

  • The Empire Leadership Team, who emphasizes that students can perform effectively and treat their 'opponents' with civility and respect

Together, these connections help our students build a personal and professional network that will be invaluable in the future.

Empower 

Equipped with new knowledge, skills, connections and perspective, students return to their communities as better all-around citizens, empowered to be more effectively and compassionately engaged with the world around them.

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Our Model

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Trials take place in either real courtrooms, or simulated trial rooms. Students receive written and verbal feedback from 2-3 legal professionals after each round.

Read about our Trial Format & Rules

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Prior cases have highlighted issues such as mass incarceration, hate crimes, and environmental injustice, and include speakers and supplemental materials to address the topic at hand. 

Read about our original, topical Cases

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An atmosphere of kindness and respect encourages young people to connect with their peers at Empire’s ceremonies and Experience events.

Read about our one-of-a-kind Special Events

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Prior projects have included volunteering at a homeless shelter and preparing snack packs for economically disadvantaged elementary school students, all of which teach students the value of giving back to others.

Read about our Public Service Projects