Jessup Competitors Guide Videos: Part 1

White & Case Jessup Competition Resources

Introduction

A standard introduction from the first oralist includes names of both oralists, the side they represent, a brief outline of the submissions each Agent will make and the allocation of time. The second oralist should introduce himself or herself and briefly outline the submissions he or she will make.

Road map - Respondent

Respondent oralists should specifically cite to Applicant's arguments when presenting the arguments and setting up their road map.

IRAC method

When presenting an argument, oralists should remember the IRAC method – present the Issue, identify the Rule, describe the Application, and Conclude. It is important to keep this in mind even when being asked multiple questions from the bench.

Lead with the law

The ICJ is a court of law so when answering questions leading with a point of law is always best.

Arguments not contained in your memorial

A Jessup team's oral arguments are not limited to the arguments made in its memorial. Jessup teams should be prepared for questions from the bench that go beyond the scope of their memorial.

Common judge question

In the Jessup Competition, judges commonly ask why the ICJ has jurisdiction over a particular case.

Bringing judges back to road map

Jessup judges often test an oralist's ability to move from issue to issue while maintaining the structure of the road map and managing time. It is important to recognize appropriate opportunities to move the argument along and bring judges back to the road map.

Related links

• Continue watching Jessup Competitors Guide Videos: Part 2
• Go back to the Jessup Competitors Guide
• View all Jessup Competition Resources