Law students have sights on success at national law competition
Two law students are hoping to set a precedent when they take part in a national law competition.
Rohan Quinn, 18, and Elliot Gribble, 29, who are both studying at Blackburn University Centre are entering the Essex Court Chambers National: Mooting Competition, which takes place on 31st January.
Rohan Quinn is a first year LLB (Hons) Law student and recently became the University Centre’s youngest Law Society President.
While Elliot Gribble is a final year student studying in his final year of an LLB Law (Accelerated Route).
A moot is an argument on points of law that aims to simulate, as far as possible, an authentic court hearing before a judge. The successful mooting team is the one who presents their case, whatever its merits, the most ably and persuasively.
Elliot previously entered a mooting competition and received positive feedback which led to Elliot and Rohan entering the competition.
The Essex Court Chambers National Mooting Competition is one of the longest established national mooting competitions in the UK. There are various rounds held throughout the winter and spring, with the finals held in June at the Royal Courts of Justice.
Elliot said: “I think it’s really important to take advantage of events like this. It’s good on your CV and you learn lots of skills. It’s not about winning or losing, it’s about the time and effort that you put in and the learning opportunity you get out of taking part. You get a good sense of being a practicing lawyer. You get to meet judges and other aspiring law graduates, it’s a great chance to network.”
Rohan added: “I’m looking forward to the competition, it’s my first ever moot. It’s a great opportunity on a grand stage. We have been able to practice, which has been great. Mooting is part of the course curriculum, so we get hands-on experience which has given me an edge.
“Elliot has also been a great help with etiquette and learning the content. You get to experience a trial and participate in something which is similar to real life and will be beneficial in the long term. I am interested mostly in public law, that has been my favourite module so far.”
The pair, who have been sponsored for the competition by Blackburn University Centre Students’ Union, are also entering the National Law Student Triathlon in Kent on the 30th of April and the 1st of May.
Wai Mo, Law lecturer said: “The mooting competition is an extra-curricular activity which both Elliot and Rohan have got involved with in addition to their studies. The commitment they have given to this is amazing, they have shown a real desire to further their career and aspirations. It’s been great to see.”
Dr Fazal Dad, Principal and Chief Executive of Blackburn College said: “I’m immensely proud of Elliot and Rohan for their continued efforts to enrich their studies with extra-curricular activities such as The Essex Court Chambers National Mooting Competition.
“Our Law provision at Blackburn University Centre not only allows students to come away with a top degree qualification, but also provides students with the opportunity to broaden their knowledge by taking part in guest lectures with industry specialists, relevant trips and work placements.
“I wish Elliot and Rohan the best of luck for the competition.”
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