The W’s Mock Trial Team ruled winners at Cactus Classic Invitational

Mississippi University for Women’s Mock Trial Team achieved a major milestone by competing in the 10th annual Cactus Classic Invitational hosted by the University of Arizona. Held at the Pima County Consolidated Justice Court, the invitation-only competition hosted 20 teams from universities and colleges from across the United States.

All students competed in four rounds of trial competition, with two taking place on Saturday, Nov. 9 and two rounds Sunday, Nov. 10. 

Overall, The W’s Mock Trial team won more ballots than Utah Tech University A team, University of Portland A team, Occidental College A team, Northern Arizona University A team, and both University of Colorado Boulder mock trial teams. The W’s mock trial team won the same number of ballots as one Scripps College team and Colorado Mesa University’s A team. 

Senior team member Llayne Skinner earned the Outstanding Attorney award. Reflecting on the experience, Skinner stated, “Competing against top-tier teams was both intimidating and rewarding. It validated our hard work and showed that we could hold our own at the highest level.”

Skinner received a near-perfect score of 19/20 for her work as a defense attorney. Only 12 student attorneys participating in this invitational were recognized in this capacity, needing to earn at least a 17 rank by judges. 

As a senior aspiring to attend law school, Skinner emphasized how the hands-on experience from mock trials has been more impactful. “The competition definitely stands out. It’s going on my resume because it’s such a prestigious competition.”

Participation in the Cactus Classic was made possible by the generosity of alumni Jayne Perkins-Brown (’77) and Don Spaulding (’86) who pledged a matching gift to the university’s foundation in support of The W’s Mock Trial Team.

“Placing value on opportunities for enrichment beyond the classroom is important in preparing students for highly competitive and successful careers after graduation. I’m pleased to help play a role in providing resources and support needed to make these opportunities possible for W students,” said Spaulding.

The W’s Mock Trial team is open to all students on campus, regardless of major. Students can earn class credit in both the fall and spring semesters preparing the case for regional competition in the spring.

Any student interested in law school or just wanting an opportunity to test their theatrical skills playing a witness, is encouraged to contact either of the team coaches, Wesley Garrett (whgarrett@muw.edu) or Ashley Chisolm (eachisolm@muw.edu). For students interested in law school, having mock trial experience is often viewed as a booster on a resume.