Come to Compete.
Leave with a Story You'll Never Forget.
THE ENERGY
Empire tournaments bring together students from across the world who are deeply curious, highly driven, and ready to engage. Walk into an Empire courtroom and you feel it immediately: focused preparation, animated conversations, sharp questions, and genuine excitement.
Empire isn’t just a competition–it’s an experience. One where students, coaches, judges, and volunteers come together to test ideas, sharpen skills, and participate fully in something bigger than themselves.
THE CHALLENGE
Empire cases are intentionally demanding.
Our problems are complex, layered, and rooted in real legal and social questions. They require not only mastery of the rules and the record, but strategic thinking, adaptability, and collaboration under pressure. Empire competitors face accomplished, well-prepared teams who push them to think deeper, argue smarter, and perform at their best.
At Empire, excellence and empathy go hand in hand.
We believe mock trial is about more than winning rounds: it’s about developing thoughtful, compassionate citizens. Our case topics are designed to engage students with contemporary issues, ethical dilemmas, and questions of justice that extend beyond the courtroom.
That commitment continues through our public service initiatives, which invite students to use their skills in service of their communities. By connecting advocacy, education, and civic engagement, Empire helps students understand the responsibility that comes with using their voice.
WHAT WE VALUE
“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
Empire tournaments are rooted in some of the most vibrant, diverse, and culturally rich cities in the world.
From Opening Ceremonies at iconic institutions like the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia to architecture cruises along the Chicago River, Empire experiences extend beyond the courthouse. Students explore the cities they’re competing in, gaining exposure to history, culture, and community alongside competition.
THE CITIES
We continually invest in technology and tournament design to improve the experience for students, coaches, and judges alike. Some Empire tournaments livestream trials, while all offer digital exhibits, streamlined communication, and fully digital tabulation powered by software we designed ourselves.
Innovation at Empire is about accessibility, transparency, and creating a competition that meets the moment with integrity.
THE INNOVATION
“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
