What is Top Mock?
Top Mock is a highly selective program administered by Furman’s award-winning collegiate Mock Trial team. The program is designed for high school students who have competed in mock trial tournaments (particularly the Empire Tournaments, Gladiator Tournaments, State Championships, or National Championship). Top Mock participants receive a week of training and instruction from Furman’s experienced mock trial coaches and competitors.
“Furman Top Mock genuinely transformed my pre-professional life and catapulted my skills to a new level. We acquired abilities that most prospective lawyers do not learn until law school. We were rigorously trained to tear apart cases, prepare directs, prepare crosses, and execute statements within a matter of days. I would recommend this incredible learning experience to any mock trial participant.” Araceli Carmen Cooper, JH Rose High School (Greenville, NC)
“Furman’s Top Mock summer program helped me improve my mock trial skills significantly. I learned to write high-quality questions that resulted in effective direct examinations. Additionally, the program improved my time management skills. Overall, I had an amazing time at Top Mock; I learned a lot, met great people, and enjoyed myself a great deal.” Bridget Schumacher, Indian Hill High School (Cincinnati, OH)
“As an attorney coach for a competitive high school mock trial team and a parent, I could not be happier that my daughter asked to attend Top Mock this past summer. She was able to argue a pre-trial motion which really kick started her in a pre-trial role this season. But the greatest gift was the opportunity to immerse herself with other like-minded teenagers, and the confidence she gained by working hard and proving herself in a demanding but supportive environment. I highly recommend Top Mock to anyone interested in taking their skills to the next level.” Lisa Rothstein, Coach, Dos Pueblos High School (Santa Barbara, CA)
Top Mock Instruction
Top Mock participants polish their knowledge of evidentiary rules, learn advanced techniques in crafting direct and cross-examinations, and acquire sophistication in developing witness portrayals. This advanced-skills program focuses on both the substantive aspects of preparing a case as well as presentation techniques under the supervision of seasoned litigators and acting professionals.
Top Mock participants will prepare the same case that is being argued at the 2024 Gladiator tournament. The program begins with leadership training led by the staff of the university’s Leadership Programs. During the week, participants will be trained as attorneys and witnesses and work within a team to develop a case presentation.
At the end of the week, students argue their case in the Carroll A. Campbell, Jr. U.S. Courthouse in downtown Greenville. It’s an opportunity to join forces with other top-flight mock trial participants that you normally only see on the opposing counsel team.
