In 1985 the Political Science department established a mock trial team, which participates in competitions sanctioned by the American Mock Trial Association. Since 1993, professor Michael Engelhardt has coached the team with assistance from Decorah attorney Jim Burns of the Miller, Pearson, Burns, Beatty, and Cowie Law Firm.

Between fifteen and twenty students, divided into A and B teams, participate each year. The teams travel to three or more competitions each year and occasionally Luther sponsors a Norse Invitation. The program is designed to help students learn the basics of critical thinking, acquire basic knowledge about the criminal and civil legal systems, and enhance the leadership skills of the two persons selected to be co-captains each year.

Objection, Your Honor

Read Ismail Hamid's blog post to learn more about Luther's mock trial team and their recent experiences at the regional tournament.