On Wednesday 11th November two of our students, Katie Whyte and Seán Beatty (both 4th year Law Plus students), competed against a team from the University of Cambridge (James McKean and Hanspreet Singh Sachdev) in the annual UL v Cambridge moot court competition. Established since 2014, the competition is a prestigious law moot court which consists of both written and oral rounds, where participants get to represent the different parties of the process. This year’s problem scenario was based on a fictitious case regarding war crimes. This year, UL finished runner-up against the team from Cambridge.

The Moot was chaired by Judge Mary Emer Larkin (Judge of the District Court) who was particularly impressed by UL and Cambridge students. Both teams received high praise for their thorough research, preparedness, professionalism, and passion in this challenging competition. Not only did competing students work well as a team, they also performed well individually.

Congratulations to Katie and Seán for their fabulous performance. The team was coached by Sarah Crowley, Lecturer in the Law School. Thanks to Clodagh Dunne and the UL Law Society who coordinate the annual moot court competition with Cambridge.

Dr Ger Coffey, Director of Mooting in the Law School, said:

“We strongly encourage our students to participate in moot competitions and work closely with them in preparation as it provides students with the opportunity to combine theory and practice. We are so proud of Katie and Seán. Their motivation and enthusiasm is commendable.”

The Moot Court programme in UL enjoys a strong tradition of success and is earning a national reputation as one of the leading student advocacy programmes in the country.

Main Picture: Professor Shane Kilcommins, Head, School of Law giving his opening address at the UL v Cambridge Mooting Competition