Carthage College Mock Trial completes 2025-26 season

The Carthage College Mock Trial team recently concluded its competition season.

Mock Trial is a course in the criminal justice department for students from any major interested in a career in law, criminal justice, politics, or debate. In the course, students study all aspects of trial court proceedings and the litigation process.

Competing in the American Mock Trial Association circuit, the team finished their tournament season this February in Madison, Wis, where the Carthage Red team took home the first-place trophy, posting a 7-1 record. Also, as part of the season, Carthage hosted the Dairyland Challenge Invitational in October 2025.

Mock Trial is led by associate professor of management, Michael Phegley, adjunct professor Margaret Zienkiewicz, and alumna Liv Higgins, who serves as an assistant coach. Students take on the roles of attorneys and witnesses to master the complexities of the U.S. court system. Participants gain hands-on experience in litigation and trial proceedings while sharpening essential professional skills, including critical thinking, public speaking, and negotiation.