how to moot
How to Prepare Oral Argument
(The text is quoted from Duke Law School Moot Court Board’s website with minor modifications)
For anyone unfamiliar with the in's and out's of Jessup moot court oral argument, the following is a useful guide. For further guidance, you may view a video recording of past Jessup moot court competition.
Structure & Sequence
1. Opening
Competitors may be seated after the judges sit down. When the judges indicate that they are ready, the student should rise and approach the podium or lectern.
2. Introduction
The very first statement out of moot court competitors' mouths should always be, "May it please the Court, my name is _____, counsel for the appellant [or respondent], _____." It is very important to remember to say, "May it please the Court;" it is simply a well-established formality of moot court competition, to which you should adhere.
3. Statement of the Case
You should always begin your argument with a clear and persuasive statement explaining the essence of your case. This statement should be confident, succinct, and, to the extent possible, slanted in favor of your version of the case. For example, in a case where police allegedly used excessive force in apprehending a suspected drug dealer, counsel for the government might state the case in the following way: "This is a case about the proper and lawful use of police power to address the significant threats posed by drug trafficking in our city."
4. "Roadmap"
After introducing yourself and your case, but before making any further argument, identify the TWO or THREE (but no more than three) issues you will discuss. Make these issues clear and straightforward. For example, "This Court should find in favor of the appellant [or respondent] for two reasons...." You should then list your main arguments. 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 text is quoted from Duke Law School Moot Court Board’s website with minor modifications)
For anyone unfamiliar with the in's and out's of Jessup moot court oral argument, the following is a useful guide. For further guidance, you may view a video recording of past Jessup moot court competition.
Structure & Sequence
1. Opening
Competitors may be seated after the judges sit down. When the judges indicate that they are ready, the student should rise and approach the podium or lectern.
2. Introduction
The very first statement out of moot court competitors' mouths should always be, "May it please the Court, my name is _____, counsel for the appellant [or respondent], _____." It is very important to remember to say, "May it please the Court;" it is simply a well-established formality of moot court competition, to which you should adhere.
3. Statement of the Case
You should always begin your argument with a clear and persuasive statement explaining the essence of your case. This statement should be confident, succinct, and, to the extent possible, slanted in favor of your version of the case. For example, in a case where police allegedly used excessive force in apprehending a suspected drug dealer, counsel for the government might state the case in the following way: "This is a case about the proper and lawful use of police power to address the significant threats posed by drug trafficking in our city."
4. "Roadmap"
After introducing yourself and your case, but before making any further argument, identify the TWO or THREE (but no more than three) issues you will discuss. Make these issues clear and straightforward. For example, "This Court should find in favor of the appellant [or respondent] for two reasons...." You should then list your main arguments. For example, "...First, because this Court does not have jurisdiction; and Second, because customary international law is applicable in this case and is on