Why the Classic?

Empire Classic is the original, in-person competition model that has impacted thousands of students since 2007.
Read more to find out why.

We Educate

There’s no substitute for experience. At Empire, you’ll compete against well-prepared mock trial teams, using a case that is topical, as well as legally and socially complex. When your Empire experience is over, you’ll return to your local competition feeling confident and ready to excel.

2023 Season Profile

Nationals (NHSMTC) took place on May 19-20, 2023

20

Empire teams competed at Nationals

8

Teams that competed last fall placed in the Top 20

4

Teams that competed
within the last 2 years placed in the Top 10

Note: An “Empire team” is a school that has competed in, at least, one Empire competition.

We Connect

Over the past 15 years, we’ve hosted thousands of students from around the world. By interacting with a diverse set of peers, students cultivate a personal and professional network that spans the globe.

“Empire was the highlight of my high school career. I felt tremendous pride representing my country abroad, and relished the opportunity to sing our nation’s anthem at the Opening Ceremony. Even as a university student, I’ve stayed actively involved with Empire as an intern and volunteer. I absolutely love the organization.”

Madeline Paiva
Gordon Graydon Memorial Secondary School
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

“Empire should not be viewed solely as a competition, as it was the friendliness of the organisers and the camaraderie of the participants that made the event so unique. It was certainly one of the most fun periods of my secondary school experience, and the friends that I made stayed in contact for years after the fact. The competition brought me stress, tears, exhilaration and ecstasy; and it was worth every minute of the hard work necessary.”

Emily Walker
Our Lady’s College
Drogheda, Co. Louth

“An amazing life-enriching experience. The trials are invigorating. The students from America are very welcoming, friendly and competitive – you’ll need to bring your A star game! Empire Mock Trial New York is the best school activity I have ever done! Empire is a must if you want to do Law.”

Alice Charalambous
St. Peter’s School
Bournemouth, UK

We Empower

Students return to their communities more equipped to tackle the challenges of our global society, and empowered to do so with greater knowledge and compassion.

“Becoming a part of the Empire Family has been a major factor in the growth of our program and students–both as ‘mockers’ and as engaged and connected young adults. The level of competition has deepened our students’ understanding of the legal system and effective advocacy, and given them the confidence to enter any courtroom and face any team. The cases are richly complex and explore the nuances of many real world problems they will be asked to solve as adults. Perhaps most significant, though, are the connections they’ve made with students from around the country and the world. They look forward to making new friends, and reconnecting with old ones, through social events and in the courtroom. The stories they share about their ‘Empire Experiences’ reflect the lasting impact of Empire.”

Janelle VanDeSampel
St. Charles High School | St. Charles, Illinois
3-time Illinois State Champion

The Fall Season is Here

Constitution Classic

September 27-30
Sonesta Rittenhouse Square &
Center for Criminal Justice

World Championship

November 3-6
Palmer House &
Courthouse T.B.D.

Our Competition Model

Challenging Trials
4 trials against top teams using a complex topical case (e.g. hate crime, terrorism) with feedback from qualified attorneys and judges.

Dynamic Events
Learn from engaging speakers, meet fellow students in a cultural exchange and participate in events unique to each competition city.