Caucasus University invites prospective law students to participate in a two-stage mock trial project to be held in the University Courtroom on December 9 at 17:00 and December 13 at 14:00.
The initiative is designed for applicants interested in the field of law who wish to gain hands-on experience with the structure and dynamics of a criminal trial.
Participants will have the opportunity to assume the roles of key courtroom actors—including the judge, prosecution (prosecutor, investigator), defense (lawyer, defendant), witnesses, and experts—and to experience the practical aspects of presenting a criminal case in court. The mock trial will enable participants to develop argumentation, analysis, and critical-thinking skills in a realistic legal environment.
The project consists of two stages:
Stage I — Informational and Preparatory Session
December 9, 17:00
The first stage, held in the Caucasus University Courtroom, will introduce participants to the purpose, structure, and procedures of the mock trial.
Topics to be covered include:
- What a mock trial is
- The structure and stages of a court hearing
- The roles and functions of the judge, prosecution (investigator, prosecutor), defense (lawyer, defendant), witnesses, and experts
- How to formulate and present legal arguments effectively
- Procedural and ethical standards applicable to trial participants
At the end of the session, participants will be assigned roles, such as:
- Judge
- Prosecution – Prosecutor
- Defense – Lawyer, Defendant
- Witnesses (including an expert)
Throughout the preparation process, participants will receive guidance from Tamar Mskhiladze and Leila Chochia, Master’s students of the Caucasus School of Law, who will assist with argument development, evidence analysis, and role execution.
The session will be led by Judge Levan Darbaidze, Professor at Caucasus University, founder of the Child Rights Center, and Doctor of Law.
Stage II — Mock Trial - December 13, 14:00
The second stage will feature a full mock trial conducted in a setting that replicates real courtroom proceedings as closely as possible. The process will take place in the Caucasus University Courtroom and will be presided over by practicing judge and CU professor Dr. Levan Darbaidze.
Participants will engage in the core elements of courtroom practice, including:
- Opening of the court session and announcement of procedural rules
- Prosecution’s opening statement
- Defense’s opening statement
- Examination of evidence
- Closing arguments from both sides
- Rebuttals
- Final statement of the defendant
- Issuance of the judge’s decision
Participation is available to the first 14 registered prospective students.
To register, please follow the link provided.