“The only exposure I had to the legal field was from television shows such as Law & Order. Mock Trial allowed me to come face to face with the career I have always known I wanted to pursue. For me, Mock Trial was not just a competition in high school. Mock Trial was the most important building block that solidified my passion to pursue law and become a lawyer. Not only did Mock Trial introduce me to mentors and legal professionals, but it also ignited a fire in me that still burns today.”
– Tiana Bohanon, Cleveland State University Class of 2016
The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association (CMBA) partners with the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education (OCLRE) for the Ohio Mock Trial Competition — a statewide program that gives high school students the opportunity to argue cases in real courtrooms before volunteer judges and attorneys.
Each year, teams from across Northeast Ohio compete at the Justice Center and Old Courthouse, advancing from District to Regional competitions. Students gain invaluable experience in legal analysis, teamwork, and public speaking — while volunteers witness the talent and potential of the next generation of legal minds.
Mock Trial empowers students to understand the justice system and explore careers in law through hands-on learning. It builds confidence, communication, and critical-thinking skills that extend far beyond the courtroom. Many participants, like Tiana, go on to study law and pursue careers in the legal profession — inspired by their experience in this program.
We welcome attorneys, judges, law students, and legal professionals to serve as presiding or scoring judges for the competition.
No prior Mock Trial experience is required — OCLRE provides training materials and clear scoring rubrics to guide you.
Volunteers help evaluate students on their understanding of case facts, courtroom procedure, and professionalism. It’s a done-in-a-day opportunity that makes a lasting impact.
District Competition: Friday, January 30, 2026
Regional Competition: Friday, February 20, 2026
Each volunteer shift typically lasts 2 hours, and you can sign up for one or both events.
Interested in bringing Ohio Mock Trial to your school? Visit the
Ohio Center for Law-Related Education (OCLRE) to register teams, access case materials, and find classroom resources.
For more information contact Community Engagement Manager, Trenton Butler, at tbutler@clemetrobar.org.
To volunteer as a judge for the 2026 Competition, fill out our sign up form below.
