ABSTRACT
A good advocate is someone who is well organised and able to present their arguments effectively in a clear, logical and persuasive manner. Good advocacy skills are essential, not just for mooting, but also for later when appearing in court in professional life. The three golden rules of advocacy are preparation, preparation and preparation. One of the most common mistakes made by mooters is not reading the moot problem with sufficient care or not understanding the key issues. There are four main aspects to any moot that you must thoroughly understand: the factual matrix, the parties, the legal issues and the grounds of appeal and the strengths and weaknesses of the case. In England and Wales, it is usual for the moot court to be either the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court. Some mooters prefer to write their notes on postcard-sized cards which they hold in their hands when addressing the court.
