Texas Tech School of Law Board of Barristers
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Useful Information
Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our competitions, meetings, and more.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
How do I sign up to compete?
A google form will be distributed prior to the start of the competition on the "Current Tech Law Students" Facebook page and through TechLawAnnounce.
How do I become a Board member?
Members are invited once per year at the end of the spring semester. Membership requirements are listed in our Constitution, which can be found on the Resources page of our website.
What exactly is Negotiations, Mock Trial, and/or Moot Court?
For a detailed description of each competition, please see our competitionspage. If you don’t find the information you’re looking for, contact us.
When are the competitions?
A complete semester calendar is posted online the Calendar page of our website. In addition, regularly check the TechLawAnnounce emails, BoB social media, and the Tech Law events calendar.
Why should I compete?
Our competitions are tailored to assist the learning experience while at law school in order to produce confident, experienced, and prepared attorneys who are able to practice effectively, immediately after admission to the bar. Check out our alumni page to see what former Board members and competitors say about their experiences competing.
I know nothing about mock trial, moot court, or negotiations. Should I still compete?
Absolutely! The Board will provide your team with a coach to help answer any questions and explain how to prepare for and compete in the competitions. There are also coaching packets available on the resources page.
How long does it take to prepare for a competition?
It depends on your prior experience level, including your understanding of legal terms and rules of courtroom/professional conduct, comfort level of speaking in front of people, etc. Some competitions (Negotiations) require less preparation than others (Mock Trial & Moot Court). It is important to realize that while you are being judged, you are not receiving a grade for participating. Do NOT sacrifice your grade in a class in order to prepare for competitions.
How many competitors are on a team?
Each team is comprised of two students, either 1Ls or Advanced, who decide to participate together.
What should I look for in a team member?
Most importantly, pick someone with whom you work well and who has a similar work ethic and expectations. These are the types of partners that make teams that compete in all competitions together. You might also consider role-based partners, like a good cop and a bad cop for negotiations, a partner who stays calm under pressure for negotiations, or a particularly likable or charismatic partner for mock trial. There's no one way to make a great team, it is all about the chemistry between you and your partner.
How do judges evaluate competitors?
Each competition's judging ballot (the scoresheet the judges use) is posted on the Resources page of our website.
What kind of feedback will I receive from my judges?
Constructive criticism is our primary emphasis. We want to assist the learning process so we are dedicated to improving the level of advocacy at Tech Law. Our judges also provide compliments regarding a student's competition style and teamwork.
How long does a competition last?
Competitions last two weeks, but there is not a round every day.
What do I get if I win a competition?
Eternal fame and the undying admiration of your peers. Or in the real world, usually at least a plaque worthy of wall space in your office and school-wide recognition.