Mock Trial 2026-2027

Regional Competitions:
October 1st - November 20th, 2026
Courthouses across the state

State Competition:
December 7th - 8th, 2026
Embassy Suites - Lincoln

2026 Mock Trial Case Materials

9.16.2026 Case Update

As happens in litigation, the trial court judge can make one or more key pretrial rulings impacting the claims and evidence actually presented to the jury. 

That has happened with this year’s problem. Teams are to assume that the trial court judge has made a late ruling on a motion for partial summary judgment that dismisses, as a matter of law, Plaintiff’s general negligent claim. The trial court judge has ruled that the general negligence claim is subsumed into the premises liability claim, and only the premises liability claim will be presented to the jury at trial. As a result, teams should not argue or instruct on general negligence as a separate cause of action at trial.

Accordingly, several changes have been made to improve clarity and ensure the jury instructions and verdict forms to accurately reflect the applicable law. The updated Jury Instructions, incorporating these revisions, are attached to this update. All teams should review the changes carefully and adjust trial preparation accordingly, as the revised instructions will govern all rounds going forward.

Payment

Mock Trial Registration We accept Visa and MasterCard

Team Forms and Information

Volunteer Judge Forms

  • Presiding Judge Score Sheet (paper)
  • Performance Judge Score Sheet (paper)
  • Trial Scoring and Deduction of Points Information (paper)
  • Optional Feedback Form (paper)

Time Keeping Information

  • Timekeepers' Responsibilities and Instructions (paper)
  • Timekeeping Timesheet (paper)
  • Time Card Chart (paper)

All participating teams will need a set of Official Mock Trial Timecards to be used at all trials.

Best Attorney and Witness Certificates (paper)

2025 State Awards
2025 State High School Mock Trial Awards
2026 Nationals were in Des Moines.
2026 Nationals were in the Historic Polk County Courthouse, Des Moines, Iowa.
Historic Polk County Courthouse, Des Moines Iowa.
Historic Polk County Courthouse, home of the 2026 National High School Mock Trial Competition.
Duchesne Academy at Nationals 2026.
Representing Nebraska at the 2026 Nationals, Duchesne Academy.