Miami Law has always focused on international law, and students gain hands-on learning in this area through the International Moot Court Program. Each year, the program takes students to the ICC Moot Court Competition, based on the law and procedures of the first permanent international tribunal dedicated to prosecuting international criminal offenses. The weeklong event takes place in The Hague, the Netherlands, and attracts law students from across the globe to test and sharpen their skills for careers as international lawyers. This year, 93 teams of 500 law students from 47 countries participated in the competition.
Miami Law’s team of second-year law students Lily Arslanian, Nicole Azarian, and Abigail Wettstein took home Best in the Americas and fifth place overall.
"Representing UM Law at the ICC Moot Court Competition was incredibly fulfilling,” said Arslanian. “Arguing before leading international legal experts was an honor, and finishing among the top 5 teams globally, along with being named 'Best Team in the Americas,' is a testament to the hard work and dedication we poured into this competition. The skills and passion for global justice I developed will undoubtedly stay with me forever."
This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to IMCP Director Paula C. Arias' dedication and commitment to ensuring that Miami Law remains at the forefront of international law practice and litigation.
"Participating in the ICC Moot Court Program was unparalleled,” said Wettstein. “Being surrounded by brilliant legal minds from across the globe was an invaluable experience. Professor Arias' guidance, along with the support of my teammates, propelled us to the semifinals and the prestigious title of 'Best Team of the Americas.' This journey has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and a desire to contribute meaningfully to international law."
The journey to the competition began last August, with the students diligently studying International Criminal Law under Arias's guidance. In October, they delved into the complex moot court case, each assuming a specific role: Wettstein as Counsel for the Defense, Azarian as counsel for the Office of the Prosecutor, and Arslanian as Counsel for the Victims.
Their dedication paid off in March when they competed in the preliminary Regional Round for the Americas and Caribbean, securing a coveted spot at the international rounds in The Netherlands. In the regional round, Wettstein's exceptional legal skills were recognized, earning her the prestigious honor of Best Oralist, Defense Counsel.
"The ICC Moot Court Competition was both arduous and enriching,” said Azarian. “The nine months of preparation exposed me to the vast depths of international law sources, with new insights even emerging on the eve of competition rounds. Engaging with 97 teams from diverse backgrounds was an incredible opportunity. This journey has undeniably strengthened my advocacy skills and deepened my passion for international criminal law."
The team's success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of Leticia Mora, J.D. '17, and Nicoletta Pappas, J.D. '23, former IMCP members who assisted Arias in coaching. Additionally, the involvement of former students like Jordan Behlman, J.D. '14, Javier Roldan, J.D. '18, Shawn Abuhoff, J.D. '16, Alejandra Chinea, J.D. '18, Romney Manassa, J.D. '20, Natalia Jaramillo, J.D. /LL.M. '20, Sean Werkheiser, J.D. '24, and many others, played a crucial role. These graduates, all former IMCP participants, exemplify the enduring value of the program, with 'Canes shaping the careers of future 'Cane lawyers.
The competition offers an excellent opportunity for participants to gain firsthand experience in articulating legal arguments before distinguished expert panels. The panels were comprised of judges from international courts and tribunals, professors of international criminal law, and other legal professionals, including many International Bar Association members. Over the week, the participating students also engaged in comprehensive educational and social programs and networking opportunities.
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