Bayou Challenge National Mock Trial Competition
The National Bayou Challenge Mock Trial Competition is one of the few national mock trial competitions that feature a criminal case. The Bayou Challenge is a four-round mock trial competition where teams of four students present a full criminal case under the Federal Rules of Evidence. Students serve as both advocates and witnesses.
In Louisiana, we have a word – lagniappe (pronounced “lan-yap”) – which means “a little something extra.” The Bayou Challenge embodies that spirit: an extra competition, delivered with the fun and hospitality of Louisiana.
Competition Timeline
| Date | Time | Event |
| Friday, January 30, 2026 | — | Case File Released |
| Friday, February 13, 2026 | 11:59 pm CST | Discovery Requests Deadline |
| Friday, February 20, 2026 | — | Amended Case File Released |
| Friday, March 13, 2026 | 5:00 pm CST | Welcome Reception and Coaches’ Meeting (LSU Law Center building) |
| Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 8:00–9:00 am CST | Team Check-In (19th JDC) |
| 9:15 am CST | Round 1 Begins (19th JDC) | |
| 12:00–1:00 pm CST | Lunch Provided (19th JDC) | |
| 1:15 pm CST | Round 2 Begins (19th JDC) | |
| Following Round 2 | Team Reception (venue near the 19th JDC)
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| Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 9:15 am CST | Round 3 Begins (19th JDC) |
| 12:00-1:00 pm CST | Lunch Provided (19th JDC) | |
| 1:15 pm CST | Round 4 Begins (19th JDC) | |
| Following Round 4 | Awards Ceremony (19th JDC, ends by approximately 5:00 pm CST) |
All rounds of the competition will be held at the Louisiana 19th Judicial District Courthouse, located at 300 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge Louisiana, 70802.
Initial Case File and Discovery Order
Click here to download the initial case file.
Case File Discovery Request Form (due by Friday, Feb. 13)
Click here to complete the Case File Discovery Request Form.
Rules
Click here to download the rules.
Register
Click here to register.
Hotel Accommodations
Teams will be responsible for arranging their own lodging for the competition. Additional information on hotels and other lodging can be found here.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email Professor Jeff Brooks at jeffbrooks@lsu.edu.
