UPLIFT Law Student Trial Coach

Volunteer Job Summary – Law Student Trial Coaches:

Law Student Trial Coaches will volunteer in UPLIFT’s mock trial program, using assigned curriculum to teach students in after-school programs taking place at participating middle schools, culminating in a mock trial competition. The time commitment per week is approximately five hours, including preparation and teaching and mentoring at the after-school program. Law Student Trial Coaches will have the opportunity to work and connect with volunteer attorney coaches from private practice, in-house counsel offices, and public service. Eligible candidates must have access to transportation to their assigned middle school. Completion of or enrollment in Evidence course preferred.

Duties/ Responsibilities Include:

• Uses assigned curriculum to teach and mentor eighth grade students about the purpose of criminal trials, burden of proof, role of participants in a trial, elements of a trial.
• Leads and supports volunteer attorney mock trial coaches in teaching eighth grade students how to perform trial skills: openings, closings, direct examinations, cross examinations, objections, impeachments, exhibits, etc.
• Regularly communicates schedules and curriculum plans with assigned attorney coaches.
• Maintains files with curriculum and other data.

Commitment:

• Mock trial programs run from October–March, with an approximate five-hour per week commitment.
• Mandatory trainings will take place in September to provide coaches with thorough instruction on the curriculum and learning goals.
• After-school meetings with students begin in October. Coaches assigned to St. Louis Park will meet on Tuesdays. Coaches assigned to Columbia Heights and Roseville will meet on Wednesdays.
• Mock trial exercises take place in March during Minnesota Law’s spring break to complete the program.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and trial skills.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong leadership skills with ability to motivate and encourage others.

Education and Experience:

This volunteer position is open to all students currently enrolled in law school.

To apply or learn more about volunteering, please contact Marielle Sinicropi at Uplift.coord@gmail.com.