RGU edged out against city rivals in return of Granite City Moot

The Granite City Moot, a legal debate featuring law students at both Robert Gordon University and University of Aberdeen, took place last week for the first time since lockdown.

Hosted at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Wednesday 22 March, the event was presided over by Sherriff Andrew Miller with Brodies LLP continuing their support as sponsors.

Mooting allows students to demonstrate both their legal knowledge and skills acquired during their law studies whilst adhering to the protocols of a real court. The problem set to the students this year involved a criminal appeal in a case involving vandalism, freedom of speech and criminal procedure.

Students from both universities engaged in a lively legal debate in front of academics and fellow classmates before the final ruling declared University of Aberdeen as narrow victors.

Representing RGU was Andrea McEwen, an online LLB student, and Madeline Massey, enrolled in the BA Law and Management course. Both are first year students and had only one practice Moot between them.

Andrea said: “I absolutely loved doing this. It was amazing standing up at the front of the court addressing the Sheriff on my points to argue. I cannot wait to be back in a courtroom.”

David Christie, Academic Strategic Lead at RGU’s Law School, said: “Mooting involves students being given a problem scenario with a real legal problem set around a fictitious set of facts. They have to research a complex area of law, construct an argument which clearly and convincingly sets out why their client should win the case, and then deliver that argument in a way that will persuade the judge.

“This event was a great opportunity for students to test their skills in a real setting, in front of a real Sheriff and members of the local law community. Public speaking skills and confidence only come with practice and moots are a great way to do this, showing students how their academic knowledge can be applied in practice.

“We are very proud of the performance by Andrea and Madeleine which will stand them in good stead for their career and future moots.”

Winners of this year’s Granite City Moot were presented with their award by Malcolm Mackay, a partner from sponsors Brodies LLP.

Image from L-R: Andrea McEwen; Madeline Massey; University of Aberdeen team; Malcolm Mackay, Brodies.