The oral advocacy workshop program gives our members a unique opportunity to prepare students and staff from other law schools for courtroom opportunities.
This network offers these workshops as a service to one another. Typically, a network member will send a request for a workshop a month or two in advance of argument. Then, faculty and staff from participating network members will volunteer as mock judges for the workshop. The program connects students, staff, and faculty from various law schools together.
For those interested in participating, below are some common questions and answers for reference.
How are workshops scheduled?
Workshops are generally scheduled at least one month in advance. Faculty and staff work together to find an amenable time and format—most workshops are conducted virtually.
Who are the mooting Judges and how can I participate as a Judge?
Judges for the program include faculty from participating law schools, appellate practitioners, and recent graduates and /or federal law clerks. If you are an appellate practitioner or a recent federal law clerk who is interested in participating as a Judge, please contact Xiao Wang (x.wang@law.northwestern.edu).
What is the format of a workshop?
Every workshop is different, but generally, the first half will consist of formal questioning, in a simulation of the court proceeding. The second half is an informal engagement between the advocate and the mooting judges. In total, each workshop lasts between sixty and ninety minutes.
Who attends the workshops?
Counsel and the acting Judges attend the workshops, as well as the law student participating as the oral advocate. At the discretion of counsel, other students or staff may attend and observe.
What is the program’s confidentiality policy?
We have a rule of absolute confidentiality for all matters discussed during the workshop.