Robert Gordon University has emerged victorious for a fourth year in a row after another lively evening of debate at the Granite City Moot.
Sponsored by Brodies LLP for the ninth consecutive year, the annual debating competition saw students from RGU pit their wits against counterparts from Aberdeen University in a lively legal debate in front of Sheriff Andrew Miller and supporters from both universities, at the Society of Advocates in Aberdeen Library.
Dan McManus, Senior Counsel and Charlotte Torrance, Junior Counsel appeared for RGU, while Kirit Bilon, Senior Counsel and Joanne Smith, Junior Counsel appeared for Aberdeen University.
Mooting allows students to demonstrate their legal knowledge and presentation skills acquired during their law studies while adhering to the protocols of a real court. This year's case involved a civil appeal on the issue of the right to privacy and freedom of expression, involving photographs being taken of a celebrity in their own home.
The moot was adjudicated by Sheriff Miller who was particularly impressed by the students' ability to deal with interventions from the Bench; praising both their confident response and continuity of argument - and remarking on a close result on a complex legal issue involving rights to privacy and freedom of press.
Malcolm Mackay, a Solicitor Advocate and partner in Brodies' insurance & risk team in Aberdeen presented the prizes.
He said: "We're pleased to support the Granite City Moot for the ninth consecutive year, mooting and debating are valuable ways for students to develop the skills that are applied by lawyers in court, in presenting arguments and referring to case authority. Once again, the quality of argument presented by the students was high, which resulted in an enjoyable night for all who attended. Congratulations to RGU and we look forward to supporting next year's event."
