The regional advocacy competitions will take place from February 25th to 27th, 2025.
Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Competition ("TMMCC")
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The Regional TMMCC consists of a maximum of 18 teams made up of two advocates per team. Teams will write briefs arguing on behalf of petitioner and respondent. Regional competitions will simulate an appellate oral argument proceeding. The top three placing teams from the regional convention will be invited to compete at the National Convention Advocacy Competition. For each round, oral arguments are evaluated on the competitor's overall ability as an appellate advocate. Each team consists of the two advocates per side speaking for an allotted time of no more than 30 minutes, including rebuttal. After each side articulates their argument, the judges score each competitor using the official TMMCC rubric. Overall, each round lasts no more than 1 1/2 hours from start, to finish. |
Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition ("CBMMTC")
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The Regional CBMMTC competition consist of a maximum of 18 teams. Rounds simulate a civil trial proceeding where each team, consisting of four members each, offers opening statements, direct and cross examination of witnesses, and closing arguments. The top three placing teams from the regional convention will be invited to compete at the National Convention Advocacy Competition. Witnesses are not scored in this competition. Advocates are evaluated on their overall courtroom presence, command of the Federal Rules of Evidence and Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, teamwork, and accuracy of objections. Each trial lasts approximately two and one-half hours. |
Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Competition ("NMINC")
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The NMINC is the only competition that is hosted only at the National Convention. Teams consist of two students who work together to negotiate an international issue. The competition consists of five total rounds that are approximately one hour and thirty minutes each. Advocates will be evaluated on their negotiation skills, and command of the problem's subject-matter. |
from prep to podium
recap video
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Frequently asked questions
MID-ATLANTIC REGION THURGOOD MARSHALL MOOT COURT TOURNAMENT
MID-ATLANTIC REGION THURGOOD MARSHALL MOOT COURT TOURNAMENT
GENERAL QUESTIONS
1. When is the regional competition?
a. The Regional Competition will take place from February 25th - February 27th 2026, during the Regional Convention weekend.
2. Can I participate in both the Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Competition & the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition?
a. No
REGISTRATION QUESTIONS
3. How many teams may register per school?
a. Each school may register up to four (4) teams. Furthermore, each school must order their teams in terms of priority for time of registration.
4. What is the registration fee?
a. The registration fee is approximately $400.00 per team.
5. How many students may participate on a team?
a. Each team is composed of two (2) active law students who are enrolled from the same law school. Both students must participate as a brief writer, researcher, and oral advocate. No student can solely do one of these tasks.
6. Can I compete if I am not a part of NBLSA?
a. No, all students must be members of a financially active NBLSA Chapter in good standing with the Association and their local chapter. Teams without a school BLSA Chapter are not eligible to compete.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
1. When is the regional competition?
a. The Regional Competition will take place from February 25th - February 27th 2026, during the Regional Convention weekend.
2. Can I participate in both the Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Competition & the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition?
a. No
REGISTRATION QUESTIONS
3. How many teams may register per school?
a. Each school may register up to four (4) teams. Furthermore, each school must order their teams in terms of priority for time of registration.
4. What is the registration fee?
a. The registration fee is approximately $400.00 per team.
5. How many students may participate on a team?
a. Each team is composed of two (2) active law students who are enrolled from the same law school. Both students must participate as a brief writer, researcher, and oral advocate. No student can solely do one of these tasks.
6. Can I compete if I am not a part of NBLSA?
a. No, all students must be members of a financially active NBLSA Chapter in good standing with the Association and their local chapter. Teams without a school BLSA Chapter are not eligible to compete.