What is STLA?
The Student Trial Lawyers Association at GSU is the College of Law’s only competitive mock trial team. Our organization competes against teams from other law schools in organized competitions throughout the year. We accept upcoming 2L and 3L students for our team. STLA seeks to build advocacy skills, public speaking ability, confidence, and to prepare students for the challenge of trying cases. Our coaches are GSU COL alumni who currently practice in litigation, whether criminal or civil, who want to pass on their skills and knowledge to the next generation of GSU COL graduates.
How Do I Try Out for STLA?
Follow this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15RTOjjWNSkWtRTzbPBBptfJQydNo5kFp?usp=sharing to access the tryout materials, signup sheet, and more information.
Upcoming 2L Tryouts: Upcoming 2Ls will prepare an opening or closing statement for either the Prosecution or Defense between 8-10 minutes long and deliver it at tryouts. Statements are based on case materials available through the link above. We strongly encourage you to memorize your statement, or at least be able to deliver the statement confidently and with minimal use of notes.
Upcoming 3L (and 4LP) Tryouts: Upcoming 3Ls (and upcoming 4LP’s) will prepare an opening or closing statement for either the Prosecution or Defense between 8-10 minutes long and deliver it at tryouts. In addition, 3L students will prepare a 5 minute cross-examination for any witness of your choosing from the case file. You do not have to provide a witness, we will provide one for you to cross-examine.
When are Tryouts?
Tryouts for 2Ls will be held on Saturday, April 9. Tryouts for 3Ls will be held on Sunday, April 10. Tryouts will be held in-person at the law school.
Why STLA?
STLA members receive 1 hour of class credit each semester that they compete. STLA members receive practical, hands on experience with the Federal Rules of Evidence. Moreover, STLA members make connections with practicing attorneys who provide mentorship and job opportunities. There is also the opportunity to earn an Advocacy Certificate and to receive special honors at graduation. STLA also has a winning record, with 17 national championships, 15 regional championships, and 7 2nd place finishes at national competitions. Since 2019, 5 STLA members have receive prestigious “Best Advocate” awards at their competitions. Our alumni network is comprised of judges and practicing attorneys in Georgia and throughout the country, including GA Supreme Court Justice Shawn LaGrua, GA Court of Appeals Judge Trea Pipkin, and GBI Director Vic Reynolds.
Where Do I Send Questions?
Please email Colin Daniels at [email protected] if you have questions or require assistance.