Mooting Competitions

Danielle Gallagher

‘Mooting has been a great experience in terms of learning how to apply the research skills we develop in academia to a more practical outcome. There is nothing quite like the feeling of developing an argument based on close reading of case law, and seeing a Judge (especially a Supreme Court Justice!) be persuaded by a combination of the principles you have identified and the advocacy of the Counsel.

My biggest piece of advice (and my own learning) has been read, read, read. Then read again. Knowing the precise wording of a judgment, how it can work for your argument, and anticipating how it may be used against you, is half the battle.’

Eimear Fanthorpe

‘ The best way to describe mooting is it is like taking on a mini-module except the craic’s 90. Rather than learning a broad topic, mooting necessitates you to independently learn a niche area of law which has greatly improved my researching ability and made me more adaptable to reading case law which is fantastic as it has helped my learning in other modules.

Mooting has taught me the skill of courtroom advocacy and also improved my overall confidence which will stand to me in my future career endeavours. I have used the presentational skills I learned in mooting to successfully gain a place in an American University next year- something which I would never have had the confidence to apply for before I began mooting.

My two top tips for any future mooters would be that whilst practicing your oral argument, do so as you would on the day as this gets you more used to court room etiquette. Also remember you only get one opportunity to convince/impress the judge so make sure to make it count.’

Jordan Thorburn

‘Up to this point in my university career I would definitely refer to the moot in the Supreme Court as being the highlight. It was an unbelievable experience from start to finish and one which I would say has brought great benefits to all involved. I have learnt a lot not just from the moot itself, but the entire trip; a tour of the Supreme Court being a real highlight. I feel my public speaking skills in particular have really benefited. On top of all that we had some great craic as group. It’s an opportunity which I am extremely grateful for. I hope our experience can lead to future success on the mooting front and maybe even encourage people to get involved.’