My OperaMooting Tips and Tricks
Thursday, April 28, 2011 9:13:17 AM
1.Learn to be punctual in relation to the allocated time. Remember time is everything you’ve got.
2.Maintain eye contact with the judges throughout the argument. As much as possible avoid looking away or fiddling with items which may make judges to divert their attention.
3.Always be guided by the moot question(s). Do not substantially move away from it.
4.When citing cases, the reference should always be read in full; NO abbreviations. To avoid excessive quoting pick out the cases that are most apt for your argument.
5.As a counsel always rise to your feet when addressing or being addressed by the court.
6.When referring to a colleague say, ‘My learned friend’ the same can apply when referring to an opponent. You may also say ‘it has been argued on the other side’. DO NOT interrupt anyone, if you must, do so gently and courteously as possible.
7.Avoid expressions such as ‘I think’ or ‘In my opinion’. As an advocate clients pay you to present their cases NOT to offer opinion.
8.Refer to the latest authority (if available) in support for your argument. Remember laws are not static but are bound to change over time.
9.Stand up straight and avoid restless movements. NOTE even the most experienced lawyers tend to nervous before making an oral argument but the anxiety slowly disappear as they delve into their argument.
10.Listen attentively as your adversaries argue. Do not portray any facial expressions that could convey your opinion of what is transpiring.
11.Always organize your argument (most preferably) in two; the core and supplementary arguments. This saves time, reduces confusion and repetition.
12.Work on weak areas of your speech for instance; being too fast or too slow, tone volume (For soft-spoken people try breathing deeply before you begin and do it again when your voice falters.)
13.Always be prepared to answer to a judge’s question. In case you plainly do not understand the question ask for clarification. For example “I’m sorry, Your Honor, are you asking whether the party was mentioned?”
14.Opening formula for a case; “May it please Your Lordship(s), I am appearing with Mrs./ Miss ________ for the appellant and my learned friends Mr._______ and Miss_________ are for the respondents”
15.After you are done making your argument say something like “I rest my case” NOT for instance, “I have finished”.
An Isaac Muuo Compilation.
2.Maintain eye contact with the judges throughout the argument. As much as possible avoid looking away or fiddling with items which may make judges to divert their attention.
3.Always be guided by the moot question(s). Do not substantially move away from it.
4.When citing cases, the reference should always be read in full; NO abbreviations. To avoid excessive quoting pick out the cases that are most apt for your argument.
5.As a counsel always rise to your feet when addressing or being addressed by the court.
6.When referring to a colleague say, ‘My learned friend’ the same can apply when referring to an opponent. You may also say ‘it has been argued on the other side’. DO NOT interrupt anyone, if you must, do so gently and courteously as possible.
7.Avoid expressions such as ‘I think’ or ‘In my opinion’. As an advocate clients pay you to present their cases NOT to offer opinion.
8.Refer to the latest authority (if available) in support for your argument. Remember laws are not static but are bound to change over time.
9.Stand up straight and avoid restless movements. NOTE even the most experienced lawyers tend to nervous before making an oral argument but the anxiety slowly disappear as they delve into their argument.
10.Listen attentively as your adversaries argue. Do not portray any facial expressions that could convey your opinion of what is transpiring.
11.Always organize your argument (most preferably) in two; the core and supplementary arguments. This saves time, reduces confusion and repetition.
12.Work on weak areas of your speech for instance; being too fast or too slow, tone volume (For soft-spoken people try breathing deeply before you begin and do it again when your voice falters.)
13.Always be prepared to answer to a judge’s question. In case you plainly do not understand the question ask for clarification. For example “I’m sorry, Your Honor, are you asking whether the party was mentioned?”
14.Opening formula for a case; “May it please Your Lordship(s), I am appearing with Mrs./ Miss ________ for the appellant and my learned friends Mr._______ and Miss_________ are for the respondents”
15.After you are done making your argument say something like “I rest my case” NOT for instance, “I have finished”.
An Isaac Muuo Compilation.
