Why should I moot?

If you think that we might be biased when we tell you how important mooting is and how much fun it can be, have a look at the comments below from some other students, past and present.
	‘Many people think that mooting is just for aspiring barristers, and although it is essential for anyone considering a legal career, be that at the bar or as a solicitor, it also allows you to develop vital skills necessary for any career. You learn to speak in front of an audience, put a coherent and persuasive argument together and gain valuable research skills. It also helps with your degree, as you get to put into practice what you are learning in lectures. Not only do you gain all these skills, it is also great fun and looks fantastic on your CV.’ Lou Hawkins, LLB
‘Mooting is a great opportunity for all lawyers whether you are an aspiring barrister looking to see what life is like at the bar or a solicitor who wants experience preparing cases. It is also really good fun and I really enjoy the chance to compete and perform in front of my peers and against the lecturers whilst gaining essential experience at researching cases. It can be nerve wracking but I have found that the confidence it built in my public speaking and ability to think on my feet has been invaluable on vacation schemes and at interviews.’ Sam Carroll, 3rd year LLB
	‘I seriously would recommend getting involved in the fun that is called mooting! Everyone battles it out in a friendly, organised manner, with plenty of guidance from really experienced mooters. As a first year last year, I found it invaluable. Not only does it look good on your C.V, but also helps you to put all the law you study into context and learn great library navigation when searching for those really important cases. You can learn court etiquette and excellent advocacy skills. This really gives you a head start if you choose the advocacy option in your first year. If you want something challenging and deeply rewarding, then moot at the first opportunity given!’ Katherine Afford, 2nd year LLB (European)
'I started mooting in the first year, with the internal competition. It gave me a good grounding in mooting and enabled me to practice how to prepare materials and oral arguments. When I took International Law in the second year I had the opportunity to take part in the Jessup Moot, which provides an intense learning experience, but the rewards are fantastic and the experience you gain is vital in later life. Also, I was able to travel to India to take part in the Harish Moot in Mumbai. Of course, the fact that you've done mooting looks good on your CV as the legal research skills it helps you to develop are sought after by all law firms. The sooner you get involved, the more you'll gain from mooting, and the better you'll be.' Tim Nicholls, LLB
	'I would recommend mooting to anyone who is studying Law at Exeter. It is an excellent way to improve your confidence and to hone those all important public speaking and research skills. Not only this but it is a great fun and gives you a real sense of achievement.' Laura Evans, 3rd year LLB (European)
‘In my opinion, mooting is essential to a law degree. When I started I was a quivering wreck that made lots of mistakes. I still do get nervous but I am more confident. It doesn’t take up that much time either – the key is to try and think on your feet.’ Jenny Betterton, 3rd year LLB
	‘Mooting is an excellent way to develop your legal skills and a brilliant excuse to get to grips with the library – something that is very useful for essays!’ Jenni Cassidy, 3rd year LLB (European)