Advocacy
Competitions
Thank you for your interest in participating in our 2021-2022 Advocacy Competitions! This page will serve as the central location for all competition updates!
Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Competition Overview
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Each team will consist of two advocates per team. Teams will write briefs arguing on behalf of the petitioner and respondent. Regional and national competitions will simulate an appellate oral argument proceeding.
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For each round, oral arguments for each side will consist of no more than 30 minutes, including rebuttal. Competitors are evaluated on their overall ability as an appellate advocate. After each side articulates their argument, and the judges score each competitor using the official TMMCC rubric. Overall, each round lasts no more than 1.5 hours.
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The top three placing teams from each of the six regional conventions will be invited to compete at the National Convention taking place from March 16th to March 20th in Memphis, Tennessee.
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Registration EXTENDED to November 28, 2021!
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Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition Overview
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Regional competitions consist of a maximum of 18 teams. Rounds simulate a trial proceeding where each team, consisting of four members, offers opening statements, direct and cross-examination of witnesses, and closing arguments. Advocates are evaluated on their overall courtroom presence, command of the Federal Rules of Evidence and Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, teamwork, and timeliness and accuracy of objections. The National competition is likewise compromised of the top three placing teams from each of NBLSA's six regional competitions.
CBMMTC COMPETITION MATERIALS FOR COMPETITORS
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Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Competition
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Registration for the Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Competition ("NMINC") which is hosted at the NBLSA National Convention will be announced at a later date.
The NMINC is the only competition that is exclusively offered at the National Convention. Teams consist of two students who work together to negotiate an international issue. The competition consists of five total rounds that are approximately one hour and thirty minutes each. Advocates will be evaluated on their negotiation skills, and command of the problem's subject matter.
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We look forward to your participation! For questions, email ​inc@nblsa.org.
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