The Stephen S. Weinstein Advocacy Program and the Mock Trial Honor Society are thrilled to annouce the 17th Annual Capitol City Challenge Mock Trial Competition—and we want YOU to be part of the excitement!

What to Expect: This year, AUWCL will host 16 dynamic teams from law schools across the nation, each comprised of four (4) talented members who will also take on the roles of their witnesses, bringing their courtroom skills to life! With fierce competition for the prestigious Capitol City Challenge trophy, the winning team will etch their name on the perpetual championship trophy displayed at AUWCL!

Mark Your Calendars: February 20-23, 2025 will be a weekend of thrilling advocacy and camaraderie! Kick off the event with our Challenge Ceremony and coaches meeting on the evening of February 20th, followed by a vibrant welcoming reception filled with drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and the chance to network with fellow competitors.

The Challenge Ceremony: Prepare for an electrifying Challenge Ceremony where teams will face off in a strategic showdown! Teams will be picked at random to select the opposing team they wish to "challenge" and compete against during the first-round of the competition. The fun continues as the "challenged team" then chooses whether they will argue for either prosecution or defense. At the end of the Challenge Ceremony, courtroom assignments will be revealed, setting the stage for an unforgettable competition!

Casino Night Returns: Get ready for an upgraded Casino Night at a new venue! Enjoy games, laughter, and the chance to win fabulous prizes while mingling with peers.

More Rewards: This year, we are excited to offer increased cash prizes for individual awards—because hard work deserves to be recognized!

The Case Problem: This year's competition features a unique DC-themed criminal case tied to our iconic Cherry Blossom Festival! The case will be released in late December, promising an engaging challenge for all participants.

Application Info: The application period is now closed. All teams will be notified by November 22nd. The registration fee is $1,000.

Please note: Teams must consist of four currently enrolled law students attending the same ABA accredited law school. All competing teams must be accompanied, throughout the competition, by at least one coach who is a licensed attorney.  

Competitors will be evaluated and critiqued by highly accomplished practitioners and judges.

2024 Competition Sponsored By:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2024 RESULTS

 

QUARTERFINALISTS:

SEMIFINALISTS:

• University of Michigan School of Law
• University of South Carolina School of Law

FINALIST:

• Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law

CHAMPION:

• Temple University, James E. Beasely School of Law

EUGENE N. HAMILTON BEST ADVOCATE:

• Taylor Zuberer, Stetson University College of Law

Watch the Championship Round!

2024 Capitol City Challenge Final Round: Temple v. Campbell