2022 ASU OPLINGER BLAKE CLOSING ARGUMENT COMPETITION

On April 4, 5, and 7, 2022, the AADC sponsored and provided judges for Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law ’s Oplinger-Blake Closing Argument Competition. The AADC sponsors this Moot Court competition each year. This competition was held in person for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic. The law students participating were given a tort-based fact pattern involving the rescue doctrine, the firefighter exception, and the failure to warn. All of the competitors demonstrated a mastery of the facts and issues. The students were provided with the fact pattern, deposition transcripts, and photographs. AADC members volunteered as judges and scored the students in several areas including how they developed their argument using the available facts/law and their presentation style. The judges also provided verbal coaching and feedback at the conclusion of each team’s argument. All students did a terrific job and expressed how much they appreciate the dialog with the judges.

During the competition three students stood out. Taking first was Madison Van Natter. Second place went to Christopher Giles. hird place was Evan Ridley. The AADC is so proud of these law students and is eagerly anticipating their entry into the Arizona legal community.