Minnesota Law Students Perform Well in National Online Moot Court Competition

Minnesota Law students fared well in the National Online Moot Court Competition, which was held online the week of Jan. 16, 2022.

The Law School’s team of three standout students completed eight arguments over three days to advance to the quarterfinal round. The team overcame a number of unanticipated logistical challenges, including having to submit their competition brief during fall final exams.

Alexandria Yakes, 3L, is a veteran of the Law School’s moot court program and earned high scores during each of her arguments. Kate Seivert, 2L, a former mock trial coach, earned a perfect score of “100” during one of her arguments, one of only two perfect scores given throughout the entire tournament. Steven Vincent, 2L, was a consistent (and persistent) advocate—arguing in each of the eight arguments.

Both Seivert and Vincent plan on competing on a moot court competition team next year.

Professor and coach Randall Ryder '09 said “eight arguments in three days is impressive by itself—but the students pushed themselves to improve each argument—which is a testament to their talent and dedication.”

Professor and coach Christoper Soper was also impressed. “These students showed grit, perseverance, and a strong command of the law and the facts,” he said. “But most impressive to me was their teamwork. They were always eager to help each other out, work together, and collaborate to achieve team success. That teamwork is what makes moot court competitions so much fun.”