By Janie Robbins (Oklahoma State University)
Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature delegates cannot not stop talking about the Moot Court competition.
“I’m looking forward to sitting in on the arguments,” Representative Garner said. “I want to learn more about Moot Court through watching the competition.”
Moot court is a mock trial process that consists of several successive rounds which includes knock-out rounds as well as a final round. Competitors will present their arguments on a designated case in front of several justices. Most of the competitors are students looking to go to law school to become attorneys or they hold an interest in another form of the law. This competition provides a great opportunity for these students to perfect their speech skills and argument style.
This session, competitors will be arguing the case of United States v. ACE. In 2010, A.C.E., whose real name is classified, was arrested after an attack on an American embassywhich is bringing in a lot of attention and controversy especially with the recent events in Paris. He was then transferred to the American Naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where he is still being held. A writ of habeas corpus was submitted stating that A.C.E. was being held without a cause and was in need of review.
Competitors spent the majority of this fall semester preparing for the Moot Court competition–as well as the competitions within their chamber.
“We held weekly meetings and learned the basic rules for the competition,” Attorney Ford said. “We used cases from past Moot Court competitions to go through the process of presenting arguments. Once the actual case came out, we began to research the cases we are allowed to use for our arguments.”
“I’m really nervous and excited to compete this session!” Attorney Mikeska said. “There are so many more competitors than last session so the competition is going to be a lot tougher.”
So, if you get the chance, take the time to listen to the Moot Court arguments. The competition will heat up quickly!