HUSLS Competitions: Mooting

Firstly I doubt many of you have heard of mooting so before I go into selling it to you and how great it is, here are a few a few facts to get you going:

What is mooting?

A moot uses legal principles and cases in order to prove your side’s argument. You will act as a barrister for either for the person who has been found guilty of breaking the law or the person who has taken the action (depending on the area of law either a private person or company or the Crown). The person with the best argument judged on technique and relevant law will get through to the next round.

Which areas of law are covered?

Mooting itself can cover all topics of law but don’t worry!!! The in house mooting competition itself is based only on the topics covered in your first year.

Will it take up a lot of my time?

Not at all! Obviously the further into the competition you get, the more time it will take to prepare and research, but bear in mind that moots will explore areas of law you will study, so just think of it more as going back over your existing learning.

And now the sales pitch: Why moot?

Mooting is a fantastic way to build up your legal knowledge and your skills at using relevant legal terminology. I found that the efforts I put into mooting were great for the exams at the end of the first year (and made it easier to revise which is always a bonus!).

In addition it will also increase your confidence in public speaking which is great to have on your CV whether you are a budding barrister, solicitor or are thinking of using your law degree in a different career.

From a personal perspective the adrenaline is amazing and the satisfaction of knowing you have presented a legal argument to the best of your ability (even if you do not get into the next round) gives you a great sense of pride in your subject and skills you have built up.

Hope to see you at the mooting demo!

Kyle Squire