LACAH is back for our 5th international mock trial! In the past, we’ve looked at genocide, ecocide, and crimes against humanity, determining whether or not their perpetrators are guilty. However, what about those who stood idly by? This year’s case will answer the age-old question, “are bystanders guilty?" by looking at an original twist on an age-old case.
What is LACAH?
The Law Association for Crimes Across History (LACAH) is a nonprofit mock trial organization that puts historical figures on trial. Our purpose is to help students critically analyze and gain a deeper understanding of history. At our events, students can meet passionate peers who share the same interests and talk to many successful professionals. You will be able to exercise your creativity, public speaking skills, and historical knowledge in the courtroom. For those drama nerds out there, you can become a witness and effectively sway the court through your outstanding acting skills on the stand.
What is this trial’s case?
This trial’s case will look at “The Mignonette.” In short, it is about a group of shipwreck survivors stranded 1600 miles away from shore when one of them (Richard Parker) fell unconscious under mysterious causes. Parker was then killed by two members of the group, before being eaten by the two and a third sailor that disagreed with the killing but did not intervene. Though Parker’s 2 killers were tried and convicted in court, LACAH V’s case will put a unique twist on it to unlock a different side of this story — one that sits at the intersection between history, law, and ethics.
What if you are a beginner?
Fear not! LACAH is very fitting for those less experienced with mock trial. LACAH provides numerous lessons from professional attorneys and mock trial experts, as well as online resources that teach you how to analyze a case, follow court procedures, and effectively present an argument. Additionally, LACAH V will feature two seperate divisions: novice and advanced. Please look at the following criteria to see which division you (and your team) should join:
Novice — for people who are new to mock trial, or have only competed in one tournament in the past
Advanced — any university student, winner of a previous LACAH, or multi-time participant of mock trial competitions
When is it?
LACAH V will be hosted online on March 4th and March 5th China Time, no matter where you are. It will be full-day events, but trials will be organized so that teams will not have to compete at unreasonable times.
How do I sign up?
To confirm your spot, visit https://www.lacah.net/register. There is a sign-up fee of 15 USD per participant, but LACAH also offers need-based scholarships. If you’re joining with friends, teams consist of 4 people.
If you sign up individually (or without a full team), we will try our best to find you a suitable team so you may participate as well. Please be sure that you and your team are available for the whole day of both tournament dates before signing up. The sign-up link is the same for both divisions, and the deadline is January 28th.
No matter where you are around the globe, we hope to see you at one of our tournament!
For more information, please visit our website (www.lacah.net) or email us at info@LACAH.net.