Cooley students gain hands-on experience in mock trial competition

WMU-Cooley Law School students garnered strong, practical experience Saturday, Feb. 7, when they competed with other students in a simulated trial setting. The school's Auburn Hills campus held its Evidence Mock Trial Competition, giving students a chance to try out skills they've learned in the classroom. The competition is the first opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge of the Federal Rules of Evidence and try out the different roles that make up the courtroom setting. Students pose as prosecutor and defense attorney in a mock criminal trial. During the competition, participants are provided with a series of police reports, witness statements and physical evidence. "The competition was a lot of fun. It was very challenging to think so rapidly on my feet, responding to every objection that came my way," said Joseph Falzon, competition winner. "As a result of my participation in WMU-Cooley's competitions, I feel well prepared for my future career as a litigator." WMU-Cooley's Mock Trial Board develops the case to be argued by participants. Members of the board participated during the trial by posing as jurors. "WMU-Cooley Law School prides itself with offering every student the opportunity to develop legal skills through a hands-on education," said Lisa Halushka, faculty adviser for the Mock Trial Board and assistant dean at the school's Auburn Hills campus. "Competitions, like the Evidence Competition, are important steps in teaching our students and offering a practice-ready education." Published: Fri, Feb 13, 2015