LEGALITY
VIABILITY
BEST SHOT at success !!
MOOT COURT ETHICS
Moot court is an essential activity of your Law school and we are more than happy to help you out by providing you tips.
Now, Moot Court preparation is divided into 2 parts being-
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Preparation for Moot Court try-outs.
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Preparation of Oral arguments.
What are Moot Courts?
Moot courts are mock courts where the students pursuing law can practice and argue on imaginary situations. A Moot Court is an extracurricular activity at many law schools in which participants take part in simulated court-like proceedings, which involves participating in oral arguments and drafting briefs or memorials.
Preparation for Moot Court try-outs
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Reading the materials and the facts of the case - It is vital that one familiarizes itself from the facts of the case and with major legal and factual points of the case. Going and being thorough with the material in hand will also result in one being ready to tackle questions from the judge.
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Choose the cases you are taking as precedence wisely - It is imperative for one to know and their own case and choosing a case you can take as a precedent case. Now, also remember to go through that particular case because the jury might know about the case and ask a few questions.
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Prepare responses to possible questions - There will be a weak area in your cases and it’ll be a huge win for you if you can spot in and also plan befitting responses for the questions related to that area.
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Create a brief outline and make important notes - Outline and make important notes in which you jot down all the important and key points for your case. It will help you remember each point and will also prove to be a confidence booster.
Do Not write every word of your argument. Use only the keywords that can help you remember key parts of the conversation or the words which will help you in the conversation or in an oral argument. -
Practice makes perfect - It is as simple as that. The more you go through your arguments, your briefs, your confidence level boosts up and you are ready to face every hindrances in your way.
TIPS FOR MOOT COURT (Oral Arguments)
Start Strong -
Start by introducing
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Yourself
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Whom you are representing
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In what capacity
State the issue -
After the introduction, briefly explain your case. The easiest way to explain your case is by relaxing and thinking of how you would explain the said case to your friend. It needs to be catching and fast and one should look to conclude this in less than a minute. Also, be clear what you want from the court (reprimand, affirm or reverse etc).
Eye contact showcases confidence -
Look directly into the eyes of the opposing counsel or the judge to project confidence and that makes a mark for a confident person.
Be conversational, but not overly familiar -
Address judges much like a junior associate would address a senior associate or partner.
Address judges with correct terminology -
In the highest court, it’s Chief Justice or Justice followed by their last name. In the intermediate appellate court, it’s Chief Judge or Judge followed by their last name. If you’re bad with names, then use “Your Honour.”
Wear proper attire -
Kindly wear proper formal attire. If you’re dressed improperly then it can make a bad impression. Make sure your tie isn’t crooked.
Be credible & Keep it simple -
Be brief and to the point. Use plain English, not pretentious expressions or legalese.