Mooting involves students arguing an imaginary case around a ‘moot’ point – that is a point which is undecided in the English Legal System. Mooters work in teams with a Lead and Junior advocate on each side. This activity builds presentation and advocacy skills and is very enjoyable. At the Sussex Law School we have two internal mooting competitions and take part in many external competitions at a national and international level.
Internal competitions
Sidney Prevezer Mooting Competition – Sponsored by DMH Stallard
The University of Sussex Law School Sidney Prevezer Mooting Competition provides the opportunity for all law students to gain valuable experience in the application of legal principles in the context of court advocacy. Students taking part are able to demonstrate their legal knowledge, their ability to apply legal materials and to develop skills of advocacy and public speaking.
Prizes have been generously donated by DMH Stallard Solicitors, who also offer the winners valuable work placements and provide at least one of the judges for the semi-final of the competition. The final takes place in the historic Combined Law Courts in Lewes and is judged by professional judges.
First Year Mooting Competition – Sponsored by Mayo Wynne Baxter
This competition, open only to first year students, gives first years the opportunity to learn the craft of mooting by taking part in workshops run by second year students and competing in a competition where they are judged by their peers in the early rounds. A partner from Mayo Wynne Baxter helps to judge the final and the firm offers prizes and work placements to the winners.
External competitions
The Howlett-Clarke Challenge - November
Sussex Law School takes it in turn to host this annual inter-varsity moot with the University of Brighton. This moot is sponsored by Howlett-Clarke and is judged by professional judges.
The Essex Court Moot autumn to spring
The Inner Temple Intervarsity Mooting Competition - February
International competitions
The International Telders Mooting Competition in The Hague - spring
Thomas A Finlay Moot Court Intervarsity Mooting Competition
The Sussex Law School (Ralph Kellas and Luke Neave) won the Thomas A Finlay Moot in 2010 against stiff competition from competitors from the US and the Inner temple