Massachusetts School of Law Earns First Runner-Up at National Trial Advocacy Championship

Andover law school reaches national finals for the first time in school history

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:18am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a gavel repeated in a tight grid pattern, representing the legal advocacy skills of MSLAW students.MSLAW's impressive performance at the national trial advocacy competition showcases the school's commitment to producing top-tier legal advocates.Chelsea Today

The Massachusetts School of Law at Andover (MSLAW) earned First Runner-Up in the National Championship in Trial Advocacy at the National Finals of the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition, held during the National Black Law Students Association's 58th Annual Convention in Portland, Oregon. MSLAW faced off against Case Western Reserve University School of Law in the highly competitive championship round, ultimately finishing as the national runner-up.

Why it matters

This achievement marks the first time in MSLAW's history that the school has advanced to the National Championship Final, building on its previous record of multiple Top 4 finishes. The success underscores MSLAW's commitment to practical legal training and excellence in advocacy, preparing students to excel in real-world courtroom environments.

The details

In the championship round, MSLAW competed against Case Western Reserve University School of Law, which ultimately secured the national title in an exceptionally close and hard-fought trial. The 2025–2026 competition centered on a complex double murder case set in a Philadelphia condominium, where students were challenged to analyze crime scene evidence, autopsy and forensic reports, and argue motions in limine to admit or exclude key evidence. Competitors conducted full trial proceedings, including opening statements, direct and cross-examinations of lay and expert witnesses, and closing arguments, with each four-person team arguing both prosecution and defense sides.

  • The National Finals of the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition were held in April 2026 during the National Black Law Students Association's 58th Annual Convention in Portland, Oregon.

The players

Massachusetts School of Law at Andover (MSLAW)

A law school that provides an academically rigorous and affordable legal education with a focus on advocacy, ethics, and professional skills, preparing graduates to become effective lawyers and leaders in their communities.

Case Western Reserve University School of Law

The law school that secured the national title in the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition, defeating MSLAW in the championship round.

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What they’re saying

“This achievement reflects the extraordinary talent, preparation, and determination of our students. They continue to demonstrate that MSLAW competitors are among the very best in the country.”

— MSLAW faculty

What’s next

The MSLAW team will continue to build on this success, aiming to return to the national championship and secure the top prize in future competitions.

The takeaway

MSLAW's impressive performance at the national trial advocacy competition showcases the school's commitment to practical legal training and its ability to produce top-tier advocates, further solidifying its reputation as a leading institution for aspiring lawyers.