Home team claims Trilateral Cup

- December 3, 2008

Dean Phillip Saunders (far right) poses with Dal's team in the Trilateral Moot Court Competition, Jordan Kirkness, Jillian Kean, Sean Fraser and Trevor Smedley.

Kent Clark was in serious trouble. After being pulled over by police for a minor traffic violation, a questionable search resulted in the discovery of drugs and stolen goods in his car.

Luckily for the fictional Mr. Clark, a team of some of the finest law students on the Atlantic seaboard had been assembled to defend him. Unfortunately, these same advocates were working to secure his conviction.

On November 7 and 8, Dalhousie was pleased to host the Trilateral Moot Court Competition, welcoming competitors from the University of New Brunswick and University of Maine. Professor Richard Devlin, along a group of enthusiastic student volunteers, ensured the moot ran seamlessly, and all participants agreed that it was a wonderfully organized event.

“It was really interesting to see how the classroom education is applied into a structured, flowing argument,” said Sarah Paulson, a student volunteer. “It’s definitely something I’d love to participate in when I get the chance.”

When results were tabulated, it was another fine year for Dalhousie. Although the contest was a close one, with all of the participants putting on a strong showing, it was ultimately the home team of Sean Fraser, Jillian Kean, Jordan Kirkness and Trevor Smedley that triumphed, winning top-marks overall. Dal's own Sean Fraser was also awarded the prize for the Best Oralist.

At the closing presentation, Dean Phillip Saunders spoke with pride of the “talented group” Dal fielded, noting their accomplishments could “speak for themselves.” The Dean also expressed gratitude for the help Dalhousie received from the local judiciary and bar in making the event possible.

Michael Karanicolas is a first-year law student at Dalhousie.