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 a high school mock trial coach, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of Furman University’s Top Mock. Every time my students have attended the program, they returned more confident, skilled, and energized about mock trial. Top Mock gave them the chance to hone their skills, stay engaged over the summer, and connect with other high school students who share their passion. They learned new strategies, pushed themselves to try new roles and techniques, and – most importantly – had a great time doing it. I highly recommend Top Mock to any program looking to grow both talent and enthusiasm.” Katy Osborn, Legal Advisor, High School Mock Trial Coach (Springfield OH)
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 2026 Gladiator tournament. 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.
