The University of Memphis Mock Trial Team competes annually with many other colleges and universities across the country.
It costs a lot to fund a team, so the team conducts fundraisers every year. But with travel costs increasing, the team's funds are running low.
"This has affected us because when we go to the next round and compete, we would have to come out of our pocket and pay for travel, hotel and other expenses," said Kenneth Walker, senior political science major.
This year, the Memphis Mock Trial Team had two members, Courtney Meyers and Adam Field. The team won Best Regional Witness at the tournament hosted by Samford University in Birmingham.
"I felt like it was an honor to represent the school and my hard work to return on the mock team next," said Courtney Meyers, senior journalism major.
However, competing each year costs money, and in order to continue the program, the Mock Trial Team is having a book drive that will last until the end of the semester. The hope is to raise awareness about Mock Trail and its benefits along with money to compete.
Meyers said the lack of funds affects the performance because other teams with more money can afford to participate in the practice tournaments and create better exhibits. The SGA funds one trip a year, but mock trial often requires more than one trip to competitions. So, the team fundraises to make up the difference.
"SGA was really good to us this year," said Meyers. "We really just want to get enough money so we can compete with other schools and go to practice tournaments, so we can be a better team."
Team member Will Beaty, senior political science major, wants the same recognition as The U of M law school.
"The law school has a new court team and national acclaim. I think we should be able to get the same treatment, especially on the undergraduate level," Beaty said.
Despite a lack of student participation, Walker said spirits are up.
"It's a terrific club to join because it's a good start for the practice and experience to become a lawyer," Walker said.
On April 2nd in room 409 of Clement Hall, the team will host an event from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. where students who donate books or are interested in mock trial can learn more about it.
Ray M. Collins, faculty advisor and assistant professor, and the other team members will be available to answer questions.
"We are at the point of recruitment, so we can choose the team for next year," Collins said. "I want students to be able to come and ask anything about mock trail. If you want to become a lawyer or anything involving law, I strongly encourage you to come."
