The success of USD's National Mock Trial Team is evidence of the law school's commitment to trial advocacy. Since 1987, when head coach Richard J. Wharton established the program, USD's trial team has consistently ranked among the finest teams in the nation. The National Mock Trial Team has garnered first place in the prestigious American Inns of Court National Tournament of Champions, is an eight-time winner of the Western Regional Championship of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, and has been selected as the best team in the 9th Circuit for seven of the last nine years.

Each year, interested students are chosen for membership on the National Mock Trial Team based on their performance in the Thorsnes Closing Argument Competition. Team members receive intensive instruction and training in case analysis and development, trial techniques, and oral advocacy skills.