  
 Delegation Resource Manual: Judicial Manual
Page 108
YMCA PA Youth & Government Program
You should not communicate with your partner while you are presenting your oral
argument unless absolutely necessary. Once you go up to the podium, you should stay
there until the conclusion of your argument. Communication with your partner could be
signs of being unprepared and could adversely affect your score.
You can take notes, cases or your summary to the podium. However, the less paper that
you carry to the podium, the more likely that you are going to be able to give an effective
presentation. Having too many notes or documents only increases the likelihood that you
are going to simply read from them, as opposed to maintaining good eye contact and a
conversational tone to your presentation.
Do not point or look to your opponents during oral argument. Your argument is to be
strictly made to the Court. Refrain from making any personal remarks or attacks upon
your opponent.
When a justice begins asking you a question, stop speaking immediately. It is considered
disrespectful for the attorney to attempt to talk over the judge. Additionally, always begin
your answer with a “yes” or “no” – and then explain. If you are unsure of the answer, take
a moment to think about the answer you give before you begin speaking.
If you plan to use a case in your oral argument that you did not in your brief or that was
not given with the case materials, be sure to give a copy to both the justices (ahead of time
so they can read over it) and your opposing legal team (when the match-ups are
announced or soon afterwards).
Be mindful of the time limitations. Depending upon the number of questions that you
may be required to answer during the round, you may not actually be able to give your
entire argument. Try to remember the key points of your argument, and attempt to make
those points in responding to questions that may be relevant to them.
If you run out of time while giving your argument, you should stop immediately, and
request the Court to allow you to conclude your sentence. If the Court grants you
permission to conclude, you must promptly conclude that sentence only.
Try to set up your arguments in a logical, easy-to-follow manner. Once again, the Court
may not share your level of knowledge regarding the facts of the case, the issues, or the
relevant case law. Practicing your argument before your partner, team members, friends,
teachers or attorneys will vastly improve your ability in the competition.
Keep your voice loud enough to be heard, and remain confident of your position.
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