1. Seventh Annual Middle East
Vis Pre-Moot Training

2. The Fundamentals of Oral Argument at the Vis Moot
Oral Argument, A to Z

3. You Might Be Asking… What have I gotten myself into?
This training will provide:
Details about how to prepare for oral argument;
Ideas about how to structure team practices;
Insight into the nuances of oral argument;
Best practices and insider tips from Vis Moot Experts;
Hands-on practices to prepare you for the Pre Moot.
It’s a lot to cover in two days, so we will be keeping close time

4. Pre Moot Competition Oral Argument, A to Z
Preparing for Oral Argument, Part I
Preparing for Oral Argument, Part II
Structure of Oral Argument
Oral Argument Mechanics
Responding to Arbitrators
Styles and Techniques
We will start broadly, providing you with an overview of the Competition process, from start to finish. From there, we will begin drilling down into the details of oral argument, beginning with how to prepare, continuing with how to conduct an argument, and concluding with the nuances of responsiveness and personal style. All of this will prepare you for the Pre Moot Competition, and ultimately, for competition on the world stage in Vienna.
Pre Moot Competition

5. Vis Tips from the Experts
Make sure you have with you:
Binder:
Tabbed and highlighted
Easily navigated
Contains all the sources you might need to reference/consult during your argument
Vis Problem, Procedural Orders No.’s 1 and 2; Vis Rules; Timeline of Events; Applicable Rules and other laws; anything else?
Business Cards:
Full name, name of university, address, and position on the team
Argument Outline
A watch or phone to keep time

6. Vis Tips from the Experts
Before you walk into the room:
Practice the correct pronunciation of the Arbitrators’ names;
Have your introduction, roadmap, and conclusion memorized;
Print and bring copies of any important cases, authorities, laws, and provisions you plan to rely on during your argument;
Make sure your appearance is tidy and appropriate.

7. Vis Tips from the Experts
When you walk into the room:
Introduce yourself to the arbitrators;
Introduce yourself to the opposing counsel, and negotiate the order of arguments;
Hand out your business cards.

8. Vis Tips from the Experts
When you sit down:
Place your binder, outline, scratch paper, pencils, and timecards in front of you;
Nothing else (except for bottle of water and cups provided) should be on the table;
Pour yourself a glass of water before the argument begins

9. Vis Tips from the Experts
Begin your argument:
Smile!
Introduce yourself and your client;
Introduce your co-counsel;
State your time, and reserve time for your rebuttal or surrebuttal;
State your roadmap;
Deliver your introduction.

10. Vis Tips from the Experts
During your argument:
Speak slowly, clearly, and loudly (do not rush);
Maintain eye contact with the arbitrators;
Sit up straight, keep both feet on the ground, and keep your hands folded lightly on the table in front of you;
Be prepared to be interrupted by the Tribunal; always answer politely, and never speak over an arbitrator;
Be prepared to speak for the full amount of time you have stated you will use;
Some panels will not interrupt you with questions, but you should still be prepared to use the entire amount of time you have reserved.
Be prepared to cite to the Record;
Never directly address or point at the opposing counsel; only address the Tribunal.

11. Vis Tips from the Experts
Do not go over your time;
If you run out of time, but you still need to conclude:
Finish your sentence;
Address the presiding arbitrator: “Mr/Madam Arbitrator, I see that my time has elapsed. May I request [one or two] additional minutes to state my conclusion?”
If you are allotted more time by the Tribunal, do not take any longer than was granted.
State your conclusion clearly.

12. Vis Tips from the Experts
During your co-counsel’s argument:
Keep time; alert your co-counsel when they are nearing their time limit;
Take notes; write down any questions the arbitrators ask during the presentation;
Follow your co-counsel’s argument closely;
Find any references or citations in the Binder on behalf of your co-counsel;
Always, always remember: good teamwork wins points!

13. Vis Tips from the Experts
During opposing counsel’s argument:
Pay close attention to their argument, and take careful notes for rebuttal/surrebuttal;
Remain attentive and engaged;
If possible, refer to points or questions arbitrators asked the opposing counsel and provide answers for the arbitrators during your argument or rebuttal/surrebuttal.

14. Vis Tips from the Experts
After arguments conclude:
Remain seated until you receive instructions from the arbitrators;
Arbitrators will most likely thank you for your submissions and request the teams to leave the room for a few moments while they compare their notes and prepare comments;
As they provide feedback, take notes on their comments, and thank them when they are finished;
Congratulate the opposing counsel before leaving the room;
Exhale and pat yourself on the back 

15. Last but not Least…
Do Your Homework.

16. …But how do I survive the next three days?

17. Tips from the Trainers Keep an open mind. Trust the process.
Work hard.
Learn as much as you can from your colleagues.
Listen to your Coaches.

18. Pre Moot Awards Best Oralist, Claimant Best Oralist, Respondent
Best Memo, Claimant
Best Memo, Respondent
Middle East Pre Moot Champion

19. “Unofficial” Pre Moot Awards
Least Amount of Sleep (Team Award)
Social Butterflies (Team Award)
Most Inquisitive (Individual Award)
Most Improved (Individual/Team Award)
Spirit of the Vis (Team Award)

20. Questions?