A moot is a simulated court proceeding. Taking on the role of Counsel, competitors present submissions with the goal of convincing the bench that their side of the case has the surer legal footing. Only a single problem is released per competition, so while strong public speaking skills and the ability to think on your feet are valuable, a comprehensive understanding of the relevant legal principles acquired through thorough research will more often carry the day.

See example Written Submissions here.

See example Skeleton Written Submissions here.

See current Senior Moot problem here.

Why should I try Mooting?

Mooting is an excellent way to match wits with your peers in a competitive, yet friendly environment. The fundamentals of the competition — detailed research, compilation of well-reasoned arguments, and effective oral advocacy — are cornerstones of legal practice. Developing these abilities while working through fascinating, contentious areas of law will give you a head start in almost all of your courses. Mooting also offers a great chance to work together with your friends, to get to know other people in your cohort, and to engage with older law students. With the law school seeking participants for a number major external moots every year, entering the internal competitions can open important doors that will truly enrich your university experience.

The University of Queensland Unjust Enrichment Moot

The University of Queensland Law Society (UQLS) hosts the UQ Unjust Enrichment Moot annually. Unjust enrichment is a unifying legal concept which explains why the law recognises, in a variety of distinct categories of case, an obligation on the part of a defendant to make fair and just restitution for a benefit derived at the expense of a plaintiff. As such, it is expected that this moot will be of particular interest to those students who enjoyed studying the Law of Contract and Trusts and Equity. 

The Grand Final bench will comprise of the Honourable Justice James Edelman (High Court of Australia), the Honourable Justice Roger Derrington (Federal Court of Australia), and Professor Kit Barker (UQ Law School). All rounds other than the Grand Final will be held at the UQ School of Law, with the Grand Final hosted at the Federal Court of Australia. 

If you are interested in registering a team, or have any further questions about the competition, please email the UQLS Vice-President (External Competitions) at vpexternalcompetitions@uqls.com