
In a typical hearing, attorney-contestants will not be able to present their arguments without frequent interruption by Judges’ questions. The purpose of a rebuttal is to respond to the Respondent’s arguments, and it is inappropriate to attempt to introduce new arguments during the rebuttal. Rebuttal:Petitioners must make their request to reserve time (up to 3 minutes) for a rebuttal prior to the beginning of each round. Attorney-contestants should conclude with a one-sentence request for relief and concisely identify the ground on which the relief would be based. Summarize at the end, if time permits: integrate your main points into a coherent whole.Ĭonclusion. Provide case citations but do not quote at length. In general, Respondents should not provide a second statement of the facts, but Respondents may want to draw attention to some facts that they believe have been omitted or misrepresented by Petitioner. Begin with your conclusion and then provide facts and law to support the conclusion.ġst Speaker for Petitioner asks the Court if it wants a summary of the facts before moving to her main arguments.

Provide a Road Map of your argument, starting with strongest points first. Opening statement: The opening statement of each attorney-contestant typically provides a brief summary of the key points of argument to be presented or provides the court with a clear picture of the case. The second speaker should also introduce him or herself to the court. Then Introduce yourself: The first speaker should introduce both him or herself and his or her teammate and should inform the court which question or issue each team member will address. Maintain eye contact with the Judges throughout the oral argument.įirst words: attorney-contestants should state “May It Please the Court” and wait for an affirmation from the Court. Use of notes: While notes are permitted (but not charts or diagrams or visual aids), judges are instructed that contestants are encouraged to give their opening statements without notes and to minimize the use of notes at other times. When speaking, do not pound the podium or make exaggerated gestures.ģ. Do not make faces or gestures or talk or whisper while the other team speaks. Contestants must be courteous to opponents and judges. Petitioners (and only Petitioners) may reserve up to 3 minutes of rebuttal and only one team member may deliver the rebuttal. Each team may divide their time as they please except that each individual must present at least 7 minutes, including questioning. Schedule a consultation to talk with us about your situation.Summary of Moot Court Rules and Guidelines (partly taken from ) Our attorneys are familiar with the expectations in South Carolina Family Court. If you are worried about what to expect in an upcoming hearing or courtroom etiquette, we can help.

You want to give yourself enough time to park and go through security. Be sure to ask your attorney before your hearing if there is anything you should be aware of prior to your hearing. Bring the bare minimum with you and leave any potentially dangerous items at home like manicure sets, tweezers, glass containers, utility tools (like a Leatherman), knives, metal forks and spoons, pepper spray and mace, concealed weapons even if you have a permit, and essential oils.

Pay attention to each courthouse’s instruction on what is allowed through security because each court has its own guidelines.Avoid clothing that has inappropriate slogans or is revealing, and do not wear shorts or jeans. Dress professionally in pants or slacks, collared shirts, and/or a sweater.Other courtroom etiquette that shows respect for the courtroom, Court, and Judge: They are some of the weird terms used in courtrooms. Have you ever wondered why your attorney says these weird and formal phrases during your court hearing? These phrases are used to recognize the importance of the court and show respect to the judge. You may hear phrases like “Your Honor,” “May it please the court,” “May I approach,” and other old-fashioned courtroom phrases and meanings that are part of courtroom etiquette.
