FSU College of Law hosts 2024 Moot Court Final Four Competition at Florida Supreme Court

FSU College of Law hosted its annual Moot Court Final Four Competition at the Florida Supreme Court last week.

It was an opportunity for four second-year FSU Law students to present oral arguments based on a fictitious case before the seven justices of the Florida Supreme Court.

“We are incredibly proud of our Moot Court team and the exceptional level of preparation and talent demonstrated by these students,” said Erin O’Hara O’Connor, dean of FSU College of Law. “Moot Court provides our students with invaluable opportunities to sharpen their legal research, writing and oral advocacy skills, which are essential in their future careers as lawyers.”

This year the students showcased their trial skills on a case exploring the complex legal question of a correctional facility’s responsibility to protect pretrial inmates, which has significant implications for constitutional law and the rights of individuals in custody. The finalists — Jake Barron and Mason Bennett, who represented the petitioner, and Sarah Kilpatrick and Nyah German, who represented the respondent — delivered compelling arguments.

After the competition, a reception was held at the law school, where Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz presented Barron with the Best Advocate award for his outstanding performance. Shutts & Bowen LLP sponsored the event this year.

“The law school is deeply indebted to long-time team director Professor Nat Stern, who has mentored our Moot Court team for decades,” said Dean O’Connor. “He teaches students to bring preparedness, poise and professionalism to everything they do.”

Founded in 1968, the FSU Law Moot Court Team is ranked 18^th in the nation by preLaw magazine and has a long tradition of excellence, with numerous national titles. The team competes in regional, national and international competitions. Moot Court provides students with critical advocacy experience, including responding to unpredictable legal arguments and engaging with judges and legal professionals.

A recording of the 2024 Moot Court Final Four Competition is available here.

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