The Charles C. Papy, Jr., Moot Court team won the Robert Orseck Moot Court Competition, beating University of Florida in the semifinals and Florida International University in the final round. This is the third consecutive year Miami Law's moot court team has advanced to the final round, reinforcing the law school’s strength in the area of litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution. Following a win in 2023 and a runner-up finish last year, the team’s consistent performance highlights the moot court program's strength in preparing students to be strong advocates.
The winning team consisted of rising 3Ls Marianne Adams and David Malka. In an unprecedented first for the school, both competitors were honored with Best Oral Advocate awards. Malka was named Best Advocate in the preliminary rounds, while Adams earned the title of Best Oral Advocate for the final round.
“It was a surreal feeling that I will never forget,” said Adams about the victory. “When the results were announced, I experienced a wave of excitement, pride, and relief. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about seeing months of hard work, late nights, and collective effort come to fruition. I am proud to have had the opportunity to represent UM Law alongside my amazing partner, David.”
The Robert Orseck Moot Court Competition, now in its 52nd year, emphasizes appellate advocacy. Teams submit a brief in response to a moot court problem, culminating in oral arguments held annually at The Florida Bar's convention. The arguments are heard by esteemed members of the judiciary, including the Florida Supreme Court, members of the Florida District Court of Appeal, Florida Circuit Court judges, Florida County Court judges, and members of the Bar.
“To be named best oral advocate of the preliminary rounds was an unbelievable feeling,” said Malka. “We went up against some astounding teams, and it blows my mind that I was considered to be the best oral advocate amongst all the competitors. I’m proud of that achievement, and I’m thankful to UM Law for giving me the training and resources that helped me hone my skills as an oral advocate.”
The team received invaluable guidance from coaches Freddi Mack, J.D. '14, and Deesha Smart, J.D. '20, both former moot court members and dedicated supporters of the program
Malka acknowledged the intense preparation involved.
“After spending roughly a month with my partner to write the brief, we then had less than three weeks to prepare for oral arguments. Balancing a full-time summer job with daily practice rounds and repeated brainstorming sessions was no easy task, but I’m incredibly thankful to the alumni and moot court members who helped us conduct practice rounds and gave us tremendous feedback and advice. Our win is a testament to the tremendous impact of our alumni. In addition, our two coaches were invaluable assets to us. They helped coach us throughout the oral advocacy process and ensured we had every tool and resource to go out and win the competition.”
In the final round, Adams and Malka presented their arguments before a distinguished panel of Florida Supreme Court justices: Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz, Justice Charles T. Canady, Justice John D. Couriel, Justice Renatha Francis, Justice Jamie R. Grosshans, Justice Jorge Labarga, and Justice Meredith L. Sasso.
“Being named Best Oral Advocate in the final round before the Florida Supreme Court justices was a tremendous honor,” said Adams. “It meant a great deal to be recognized individually, especially given the caliber of the other competitors. But more than that, it reflected the strength and encouragement of the UM Law community. I felt motivated and inspired every step of the way, thanks to the many people who supported me in reaching that moment.”
The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division memorialized the annual state moot court competition in honor of Robert Orseck, a highly regarded appellate attorney who died in June 1978. Orseck made significant contributions to the development of Florida's common law through his extensive appellate practice.
Read more about Miami Law’s moot court organizations.
