The 12th annual National Moot Court competition, hosted by DCU and sponsored by A&L Goodbody, will take place this year in an entirely virtual format. 

Ireland's largest mooting competition has entries this year from 13 institutions across Ireland and Great Britain, including the University of Oxford, who were last year's winners of the competition.

The live final rounds will take place via Zoom on this Saturday, 20 November. 

The final will be chaired by Justice John MacMenamin of the Supreme Court (DCU's judge-in residence).

He will be joined on the judging panel by Justice Ann Power of the Court of Appeal and Tom Casey (partner, A&L Goodbody).

Dr Aisling De Paor, DCU School of Law and Government, said: “We are very proud to host the National Moot Court Competition, which is now the largest mooting competition in Ireland.

Virtual format

“The virtual format of the event this year will provide a unique legal and advocacy experience, and allow wider participation from law students all over Ireland and further afield.

“We are delighted to open the competition up to students from outside of Ireland, which will further develop students' learning and development in clinical legal education, while also facilitating cross-collaboration and networking between students studying across Ireland, the UK and elsewhere.”

The benefit and impact for students is significant, Dr De Paor added. 

Participation develops practical skills in advocacy, oral argument and legal thinking – all essential skills for future lawyers, she pointed out.