Becca Yanez (OU)
The Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature’s moot court has been fully virtual for the second time, just as other events in session have. For Representative Isabel Godinez, this would be her first and last ever moot court competition. The court case being argued is Hendrix V Olympus State University. The questions competitors must answer are whether the respondent’s admissions policy, which gives preference to male applicants violates the Equal Protection clause under the fourteenth amendment of the United States constitution and whether the respondent violated the petitioner’s right to freedom of expression under the First Amendment under the United States Constitution. Traditionally, moot court would have competitors enter a room with a panel of state supreme court justices. Competitors would present their oral arguments in front of the panel, their opponent, and any O.I.L. delegates wishing to watch. Godinez describes the moot court competition as a fun and challenging environment. When asked whether she believed that virtual moot court has presented any specific challenges. Godinez replied that virtual moot court, as well as virtual session and delegation meetings, was extremely helpful towards her preparation towards competing and her future career endeavors.
The moot court competition had a practice round day on Thursday followed by preliminary rounds on Friday. On Sunday, the final round of moot court will commence promptly at 11AM. The round of debate is open to any O.I.L. delegate who is interested in watching. The Zoom link can be found on Facebook.
When asked what advice Godinez would give to people interested in moot court , Godinez responded by saying that she would recommend it to everyone, and that while it is challenging, it overall boosted her knowledge of law and confidence. Godinez expressed gratitude towards the University of Oklahoma O.I.L. and Sophie Mahalec, the OU moot court director.
“Anyone who wants to try moot court should do moot court,” Godinez said.
The moot court competition has generally been adaptable to the virtual platform. Competitors who may have been previously unsure have found some comfort over getting to perform in the comfort of their own rooms.