Go where the judge leads you, even if that means not following the argument that you planned. Do not tell a judge that you will answer that particular question later in your argument. It is vital that you fully answer the question to the best of your ability when the judge asks it. Be aware that at any time during your argument, the judges can and will interrupt you with questions.Engage in an exchange of ideas with the judges and respond to their concerns. Approach your oral argument as a conversation with, not a lecture to, the judges.Many competitors keep their hands on each side of the podium to prevent this. Limit shifting around and excessive hand gestures while at the podium. Do not bring pens, pencils, or loose watches with you to the podium.At all times, judges are to be referred to as "Your Honor," with respect and deference.For example, ".For the foregoing reasons, I respectfully request that the Court find in favor of the and. When you have finished your argument, end with a clear statement of what you are asking the Court to do (a "prayer for relief"). Answer their questions directly and use your roadmap and outline to find an appropriate place at which to continue arguing. The judges will interrupt you with questions as they wish. There is no need to pause or to solicit questions. Make your argument, and then proceed directly to your second issue. This is the best way to make a good first impression of confidence and preparedness.īegin the body of your argument by discussing the first issue in your roadmap. The most successful oral advocates memorize their opening roadmap and maintain eye contact with the judges throughout. The roadmap gives judges an overarching picture of the more nuanced argument that will follow. The body of your argument should expand below the reasons you list in your roadmap. If you think of (and/or organize) your oral argument in outline form, the two or three reasons contained within your roadmap should be the highest levels of your outline (below the conclusion you want the Court to reach). For example, ".First, because this Court does not have jurisdiction and Second, because customary international law is applicable in this case and is on the side of the " For example, "This Court should find in favor of the for two reasons." You should then list your main arguments.
Make these issues clear and straightforward. For example, in a case where United States Armed Forces used a drone to attack individuals in a country with which the United States is not at war, counsel for the government might state the case in the following way: "This is a case about the limits of territorial sovereignty in the face of global terrorism."Īfter introducing herself and the case, but before making any further argument, a competitor should identify the TWO or THREE (but no more than three) issues she will discuss. This statement should be confident, succinct, and, to the extent possible, slanted in favor of the competitor's version of the case. The very first statement out of moot court competitors' mouths should always be, "May it please the Court, my name is _, counsel for the, _." It is very important to remember to say, "May it please the Court " it is a well-established formality of moot court competition, to which you should adhere.Ĭompetitors should always begin an argument with a clear and persuasive statement explaining the essence of the case.
When the judges indicate that they are ready, the student should rise and approach the podium or lectern. Competitors may be seated after the judges sit down. Structure & SequenceĬompetitors should wait quietly in the hallway outside of the room to which they are assigned for tryouts until the judges ask them to enter. For further guidance, consult a member of the Moot Court Board and/or view a video recording of past Hardt Cup or Dean's Cup finals. For those yet unfamiliar with the in's and out's of moot court oral argument, the following should serve as a guide.
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