This fall, the Motor City will once again serve as a proving ground for the next generation of litigators. From October 24 th – 26 th , 2025, the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Michigan will host the 24 th Annual National Trial Advocacy Competition (NTAC) at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in downtown Detroit. NTAC is an event SMB YLS is particularly proud to host each year. NTAC draws law students from across the country to compete in one of the nation’s most respected trial competitions—set in a courthouse and city steeped in legal history.

I’ve had the privilege of attending NTAC as a volunteer twice before—first as a scorekeeper, and later as part of the team helping to run the event. Both times, I left the Municipal Center impressed not just by the organization of the competition, but by the outstanding talent, poise, and professionalism of the competitors. These future trial attorneys command the courtroom with their presence and professional courtesy, and they take litigation seriously. What has surprised me most about the competition, however, is that NTAC isn’t just a learning opportunity for competitors—it’s one for practicing litigators, too. While volunteering at NTAC, I’ve seen trial techniques so impressive that I’ve since incorporated some of them into my own practice.

One memorable occasion was the very first NTAC mock trial I volunteered to score. It was two years ago, and I, myself, had only been out of law school for slightly over a year. The case centered on civil negligence claim regarding the duty of care for a sports coach (the defendant) towards one of their students (the victim). An important topic, for sure, but not necessarily the most exciting stuff; at least, that’s what I thought to myself at first. That all changed when the plaintiff laid out their theme at the beginning of what would go onto be an exceptional opening statement. “The coach kept quiet,” the competitor repeated, setting a compelling theme they would return to throughout their case-in-chief. The argument was persuasive enough to win me over on the spot—if not for the equally impressive opening from the defense. That team skillfully walked the fine line between expressing empathy for the injured student while conceding nothing on liability. From there, the trial unfolded with well-crafted arguments, sharp examinations, and polished courtroom presence on both sides. That single round left me with plenty to admire—and even more to reflect on long after the trial had ended.

NTAC is designed to simulate real trial conditions, challenging students on all aspects of litigation—from case preparation and evidentiary objections to direct examination and closing arguments. Unlike more scripted competitions, NTAC is grounded in the unpredictable, high- pressure world of trial practice. Competitors must think on their feet, adapt quickly, and present persuasive cases before real judges and seasoned attorneys.

Whether you’re a law student looking to compete in the future, an attorney interested in volunteering, or simply curious to witness the next generation of litigators in action, NTAC offers something for everyone. I’m genuinely looking forward to another dynamic and engaging competition this October—and I encourage anyone even remotely interested in trial work to get involved. You’ll walk away energized, inspired, and, if you’re like me, a better advocate because
of it.

Interested in volunteering?

To sign up please use this link – https://forms.gle/dKRvsWQHR1nDQ8Qc8