A team of four talented third-year law students—Lily Arslanian, Nicole Azarian, Abigail Wettstein, and Lindsey Graham—gained exposure to international law and dispute resolution participating for the first time in the ICC Mediation Competition held in Paris.
Coached by Paula Arias, director of the International Moot Court Program, and Marni Lennon, director of the HOPE Public Interest and Resource Center, the team's exceptional performance not only highlighted their skills in mediation and negotiation but also earned them the accolade of "Best First-Time Team," setting a precedent for future participants from Miami Law.
"Competing against teams worldwide reminded me how incredible the International Moot Court Program is," said Azarian. "The competition's 20th anniversary added to the excitement. We learned from top professionals, and I'm grateful to Professor Arias and Dean Lennon for making this experience so rewarding."
The ICC Mediation Competition stands as one of the foremost international moot events, attracting teams from across the globe. The competition immerses students in mock mediation sessions rigorously judged by over 160 legal professionals. It serves as a vital platform, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application in mediation.
To prepare for the high standards of the ICC, the Miami Law team engaged in exhaustive training. They honed their skills in mediation techniques, negotiation strategies, and effective communication. Simulating complex dispute scenarios allowed them to refine their collaborative approach and engage meaningfully with international legal experts. The team demonstrated a commitment to excellence through dedication and hard work that resonated throughout the competition.
"This competition introduced me to mediation in a way my J.D. curriculum hadn't," said Graham. "Competing alongside diverse teams broadened my perspective, and winning Best First-Time Team recognized our adaptability and teamwork. I deeply appreciate the University's support and our mentors' guidance."
Wettstein also shared her enthusiasm, highlighting the personal growth she experienced. "Participating was an amazing opportunity to develop dispute resolution skills," she said. "I gained valuable insights into alternative legal pathways and connected with professionals worldwide. Representing the University on an international stage and winning our award was truly fulfilling."
This team's success marks a promising new chapter for the International Moot Court Program. As mediation continues to gain significance in commercial disputes, the school is committed to equipping future legal professionals with essential skills in this vital area.
"For the past 15 years, the International Moot Court Program has been training students in a multicultural, multisystem, and multilingual dispute resolution context," said Arias. "This year, as part of its educational mission to develop competent lawyers for international and cross-border disputes, the program has expanded to include training in international mediation for commercial disputes in the B2B sector."
Read more about Miami Law’s moot court organizations.
