Moot court is more than just a law school activity—it’s a performance of intellect, preparation, and persuasive advocacy. But while researching case law and drafting airtight memorials matter, how you present yourself in the courtroom can often be the decisive factor. Judges aren’t just listening to what you say, but how you say it. Your poise, structure, language, and even your pauses communicate your command over the law.
This guide is for anyone who wants to walk into a moot court competition not just as a participant, but as a confident, courtroom-ready advocate.
1. Dress Like a Lawyer, Not a Law Student
First impressions matter.
Wear formal, courtroom-appropriate attire. For most Indian moots, that means a white shirt, black trousers, black blazer, and black tie. Women may wear a salwar suit with a black blazer or a formal western suit. Make sure your clothes are ironed, shoes polished, and your hair neatly tied back or combed. Avoid flashy watches, large earrings, or strong perfume.
Illustration: In one national moot, a team was docked marks because a speaker wore sneakers with their suit. Small mistake, big impact.
2. Start Strong: The Art of Introduction
Your first words should establish clarity and confidence. Don’t dive straight into your arguments.
Say something like:
“May it please the Court, I am Ananya Sharma, appearing on behalf of the Appellant. I will be addressing two issues: one, whether the contract is enforceable under the Indian Contract Act, and two, whether the Respondent is entitled to specific performance.”
Keep it crisp. Give a roadmap of your arguments. This helps the judge follow your logic and shows that you’re structured in your thinking.
3. Structure is Power: Follow a Logical Flow
Nothing frustrates a judge more than a speaker who rambles. Break your submission into:
- Introduction and Prayer
- Issues (1, 2, 3…)
- Legal Reasoning (with citations)
- Application to Facts
- Conclusion and Relief Sought
Pro tip: Signal transitions clearly. Say, “I now move to my second submission, concerning the breach of duty under tort law.”
This makes you sound professional and helps the judge stay with you.
4. Time is Not Just Money—It’s Respect
Most moots allot 10–15 minutes per speaker. Respect the clock. If you overshoot, it shows poor planning. If you’re too quick, it may seem superficial.
Practice Tip: Use a timer during prep. Allocate time per issue. Plan for questions. In practice, aim to wrap up with 1 minute to spare.
If the judge interrupts frequently, and you’re running out of time, say:
“In the interest of time, I will briefly summarise my third submission unless the Court would like me to elaborate.”
5. Know Your Case Like You Know Your Playlist
Read your memorial, authorities, and compendium until you can recall the key arguments without flipping pages. Judges often test your understanding of both sides.
Illustration: In a semi-final round, a judge asked a speaker to distinguish their cited case from the opposing side’s. The speaker responded:
“While both cases involve breach of confidentiality, our case, unlike the Respondent’s, involved a fiduciary relationship, which increases the standard of care.”
That one answer won them the round.
6. Be Ready for the Curveballs: Handling Questions
Judges will interrupt. That’s a good thing. It means they’re listening.
Do:
- Pause, listen, and respond directly.
- If you don’t know the answer, say: “I will take that question under advisement and revert if permitted.”
- Stay calm. Don’t argue. Don’t say, “That’s not relevant,” even if it isn’t.
Don’t:
- Cut the judge off.
- Say, “As I was saying…” in a dismissive tone.
7. Speak Like a Professional, Not a Robot
Use courtroom etiquette, but don’t become mechanical.
Tone Tips:
- Vary your pitch. Emphasize key points.
- Avoid fillers like “umm,” “like,” and “you know.”
- Speak slowly enough for the judge to process.
Common Phrases:
- “May I draw your Lordship’s attention to page 15 of the compendium?”
- “It is our humble submission that…”
- “The ratio in this case supports our contention because…”
8. Body Language: Say It Without Saying It
Stand straight. Make occasional eye contact with all judges. Don’t look at your teammate for reassurance. Don’t fiddle with your notes.
Gestures: Use minimal hand gestures. If you use a podium, place your hands lightly on either side. Let your posture reflect control.
Example: If you’re citing a case, don’t point or wave the compendium. Instead, hold it up calmly and direct attention.
9. Transition Smoothly with Your Teammate
The first speaker should introduce the second:
“My co-counsel will now deal with the issue of constitutional validity under Article 14.”
Avoid overlapping. Sit down only after completing your conclusion and thanking the court:
“Unless Your Lordships have any further questions, that concludes my submissions.”
10. Preparation Makes Perfect: Practice Aloud
Run your arguments before seniors, peers, or even in front of a mirror. Record yourself. Note your tone, pace, and clarity.
Mock Courtrooms: Simulate a panel of aggressive judges. Get used to interruptions. Ask friends to throw surprise questions.
Real Story: One winning team practiced with their faculty daily for two weeks. They were grilled every session. In the finals, when judges went hard, the team smiled and answered calmly. Preparation built confidence.
Bonus Tips
- Mock argue your case multiple times before friends, mentors, or mirrors.
- Record yourself to catch quirks or unclear articulation.
- Study YouTube moot videos from Oxford, NLU Delhi, or Jessup rounds for posture and persuasion techniques.
Final Thoughts
Moot court is a simulation, yes. But it’s also your first real taste of advocacy. When you walk into that courtroom, you’re not just a law student. You’re an advocate. Every word, every gesture, every citation is a reflection of your preparation and potential.
So walk in with your back straight, your notes in place, and your head held high. Speak like you mean it. Argue like you care. And above all, respect the process.
You may or may not win the round. But you can always win the respect of the bench.
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