What is mooting?

Moots simulate the environments in which advocates practise. They use problems based on real legal issues, case law, and legislation, and are thus an excellent way to develop advocacy, research, and public speaking skills. 

Moots focus on using analytical skills to build and justify arguments rooted in legal precedents and factual evidence. During a moot, you will face questions from a judge that engages with your argument – this interaction, during which your submission is considered by an individual with advanced legal knowledge who looks to draw out the best from your submissions through your advocacy, encourages you to defend the merits of your argument, and concede and reflect on weaknesses. Competitions are often judged by members of the Scottish and English Benches, legal academics, and advocates. 

Mooters prepare submissions for one or both sides of the case, dependent on the competition. As part of this, it is necessary to produce a skeleton argument that outlines the submissions to be made and the authorities on which they are grounded, and a highlighted bundle of case law to be referred to during oral argument.  

Mooting combines many essential skills for legal study, practice, and beyond - it is a thoroughly worthwhile commitment.  

Mooting at St Andrews

The St Andrews Law Society, of which the Mooting Society is part, offers training sessions to mooters of all levels of experience. Students are encouraged and mentored to compete in national competitions while improving advocacy, legal research, and public speaking skills on a personal level; there are also many members who attend not with a view to participate in competitions, but to build confidence and meet others with an interest in the law. 

Over the years, mooters have trained under renowned barristers, judges, and legal academics, affording them the opportunity to improve their skills and receive advice from leading professionals. 

The Mooting Programme continues to expand, inviting leading barristers, advocates, and academics to advise our members on improving key legal skills. It works closely with the Institute of Legal and Constitutional Research and the University Legal Officers to deliver a programme that enriches the experience of members and prepares them for future legal endeavours.  Weekly mooting workshops are held in-person on Monday evenings, usually followed by a social afterwards. There are two sessions:

Information about workshops during the 2025-2026 academic year will be available soon. 

Instagram: @standrews.mooting 

How to get involved

If you would like to get involved or have any queries about mooting, please get in contact with the Masters of the Moots by emailing them at:

Callum Friel (ctf1@st-andrews.ac.uk)

Annabelle Nolan (aen5@st-andrews.ac.uk)