In preparation for selecting coaches (which are completely optional), we have been asked about the general theme of the 2010 competition problem, so contestants may pick a coach with appropriate expertise. While we cannot reveal specifics, the 2010 competition problem will involve an appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States of a criminal conviction under federal law. Obviously, the subject matter of the problem will involve a type of national security issue (lest we feel foolish calling this the National Security Law Moot Court Competition).
Thus, contestants should feel safe picking a coach who has knowledge in national security law, criminal law, appellate law, or most other areas of the law. As always, the key to any good moot court performance is careful research, good writing, and much practice for oral arguments. And, any good lawyer or professor is likely well positioned to help generally with those activities.
One word of caution on coaches: The rules accompanying the competition problem will state that while coaches are welcome, they are limited to help generally with the theme of the competition problem, major concepts underlying the brief arguments, and preparation for oral advocacy. Coaches may not participate directly in the research or writing of the brief.
Happy Thanksgiving!
