DCU prepares to host 11th National Moot Court Competition 2020

DCU is preparing to host the 11th National Moot Court Competition next month and is calling on law students across Ireland and the UK to register their interest before 5pm on Monday 26 October.

Sponsored by A&L Goodbody, this is the first time the prestigious event will be held virtually, and it is anticipated to be the largest event to date.

The National Moot Court Competition is an annual inter-law school event designed to give law students an opportunity to put their study into practice.

A total of 33 teams took part last year with entrants from 12 universities across Ireland and the UK. Competitors are given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills before prominent members of the legal profession, including the Supreme Court Judge. The live final of the competition will be chaired by Justice John MacMenamin of the Supreme Court (DCU's Judge in Residence).

Speaking about the competition, Dr Aisling De Paor, DCU School of Law and Government, said:

“We are very proud to host the National Moot Court Competition, which is now the largest mooting competition in Ireland. With the virtual format of the event this year, which will provide a unique advocacy experience, we expect that this will further increase the interest and accessibility of the competition for law students all over Ireland and further afield. We are delighted to open the competition up to students from outside of Ireland, which will further develop students' learning and development in clinical legal education, while also facilitating cross-collaboration between students studying across Ireland, the UK and elsewhere.

The benefit for students is immeasurable - participation in this competition develops practical skills in advocacy, oral argument and legal thinking - all essential skills for future lawyers. In addition, it fosters valuable transferable skills such as team work, communication and confidence that students will use in all aspects of their lives. It is also a fun way for students to gain an insight into the practical legal environment and the law in action!”

This year's competition revolves around the tort of medical negligence. Students are required to prepare written submissions for the Plaintiff/Appellant and written submissions for the Defendant/ Respondent. Students will deliver oral arguments at the live final on 21st November. 

For further information about the competition visit DCU Law and Government or email nationalmoot@gmail.com