University at Buffalo (UB)
The State University
of New York
University at Buffalo (UB)
School of Law
How to Apply  Click this button to learn how to apply to the School of Law
Make a Gift  Click to read more about our Career Resources.

Contact Us

For additional questions or comments regarding the competition, please contact:

* Jennifer Scharf, Director of Trial Advocacy Program

A group of nine people standing together indoors in front of a large projection screen. The screen displays text reading “Buffalo Niagara Trial Competition 2025” along with an image of a scenic waterfront. The individuals are dressed in a mix of business and semi-formal attire, and the setting appears to be a reception or awards event with modern decor and overhead geometric ceiling panels.

Buffalo-Niagara Trial Competition

This competition is one of the biggest national invitationals in the country, with more than 30 teams competing each year.

2026 Competition

The 23rd Annual Buffalo Niagara Mock Trial Competition will take place October 16 - 18, 2026.

Locations: 

  • Oct. 16 and Oct. 17 - individual rounds at 25 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo
  • Oct. 18 - Semifinal and Final round at the School of Law

Schedule:

  • Friday, Oct. 16, 8:30 am- noon (Round 1)
  • Friday, Oct. 16, 1:00 pm-4:30 pm (Round 2)
  • Saturday, Oct. 17, 8:30 am-noon (Round 3)
  • Saturday, Oct. 17, 1:00 pm-4:30 pm (Round 4)
  • Sunday, Oct. 18, 8:30 am-noon (Semifinal)
  • Sunday, Oct. 18,12:30 pm-4:00 pm (Final)

About the Annual Competition

Since 2004, teams from more than 30 law schools across the country travel to Buffalo to compete in this prestigious annual competition. Law students try both sides of a homicide case before experienced judges and trial attorneys who volunteer as judges and evaluators.

After the preliminary rounds, the top 8 teams advance to the final rounds. Awards are presented at a banquet and include honors for Best Opening, Best Direct, Best Cross, Best Closing and Best Advocate.