Recently, the University of Illinois College of Law sent three Phi Alpha Delta trial teams to the Phi Alpha Delta Mock Trial Competition in Washington, D.C. Teams from across the nation competed, using their skills in trial advocacy and the rules of evidence to argue a complex case. Each team was responsible for formulating their own examinations, statements, and motions in order to demonstrate their skills before a panel of judges. 

Among the 30 teams competing, only four teams advanced, and two of them were from Illinois Law. Our three teams also amassed the most awards out of any chapter at the competition. The team comprised of members Dominique Ritvo, Kassandra Altantulkhuur, Arthur Haynes, and Philip Sailer took first place, and was also recognized for putting on the best defense. In addition, Dominique Ritvo took home the award for “Best Advocate” at the competition. A second team, comprised of members Adam Janes, Gabriella Zamfir, Ben Paulsen, and Andrea Carlson took fourth place overall after intense competition. 

The third team, comprised of Jonathan Welsh, Grant Schricker, Anya Parfenoff, and Jani Mikel, also performed incredibly well. Although records outside of the top four teams have not yet been released, it is without a doubt that this team followed suit with the rest of Illinois in terms of quality, strength, and good sportsmanship. 

Historically, teams from Illinois Law have performed very well, winning first place in 2013, and placing all teams within the top ten in 2014.

The success of the Illinois teams is particularly commendable, given that nearly every team they faced was comprised of both 2Ls and 3Ls. It is Illinois Law’s proud tradition to send only 1Ls to this competition, and the judges often complimented our students on their level of skill and professionalism. Congratulations, all!