The annual P.A.D. Law School Mock Trial Competition is an opportunity to practice your trial advocacy skills in a courtroom setting. Students develop skills including creative problem solving, effective collaboration, forming a persuasive argument, public speaking, and critical thinking.

The 2026 Competition marks P.A.D.'s 18th year hosting this event. The event will be held February 26-28, 2025 at the Hilton Arlington in Arlington, VA. 

Registration will open in three separate rounds to ensure that all chapters who wish to compete are able to register at least one team. Please register only one team per round.

Registration Schedule:

• Round One: Monday, October 20, 2025 at 12:00 pm EST
• Round Two: Monday, November 3, 2025 at 12:00 pm EST
• Round Three (if necessary): Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 12:00 pm EST

The Competition provides the opportunity for teams comprised of 4 P.A.D. Law Chapter members each to compete on a national level, not just within your local community. Students compete for first through fourth place, with additional honors for outstanding defense, prosecution, advocates, and witnesses awarded. The competition is judged by volunteer lawyers & judges (both P.A.D. alumni and non-members) and Mock Trial veterans who offer invaluable, real-world feedback. This competition is for P.A.D. law school chapters only.

Looking to register a team alternate, coach, or spectator? Visit www.pad.org/LawMockTrial for the registration options for non-competitors.  

For more information on this event, please visit www.pad.org/LawMockTrial or contact Director of Technology & Competitions Leslie Plummer by email at leslie@pad.org or by phone at 410-347-3118.