The New Zealand Law Society Auckland New Lawyers, in collaboration with Meredith Connell, recently concluded its highly anticipated Mooting Competition for 2024. The event brought together some of the brightest new lawyers in Auckland, providing them with an opportunity to showcase their advocacy skills.

The competition featured multiple rounds of intense legal argument, with participants demonstrating proficiency in legal research, argument formulation and oral advocacy. 

After several rounds of compelling arguments and thorough deliberation by the judges, the winners of the 2024 Auckland New Lawyers and Meredith Connell Mooting Competition were announced as: 

First Place: Sam Meyerhoff and Sam McLean  

Second Place: Bella Rollinson and Ben Forbes  

Speaker of the night: Bella Rollinson

Speaker of the night, Bella Rollinson.

The preliminary round was judged by a panel of senior Meredith Connell lawyers including Matthew Mortimer-Wang, Alex Mackenzie, Matthew Nathan and Jessica Blythe. Court of Appeal Judge, the Hon Justice Patricia Courtney and Meredith Connell Partner, Alysha McClintock then judged the finals, an invaluable opportunity for the participants to receive feedback from some of the profession’s most esteemed members.

The Auckland New Lawyers and Meredith Connell Mooting Competition continues to be a cornerstone event for aspiring lawyers in the region. It provides a platform for young professionals to hone their skills, gain practical experience and build confidence as they commence their legal careers. 

Congratulations to all the participants for their hard work and dedication. The future of the legal profession looks bright with such talented individuals ready to make their mark.