The Advocacy Center at Lewis & Clark Law School has had an exciting and impactful academic year, filled with hands-on learning opportunities, national competitions, and standout student achievements. With programming that spans skill-building for practicing attorneys to hosting top-tier law school tournaments, the center continues to play a vital role in preparing students for real-world legal advocacy.
Plaintiffs’ Law Trial Skills College: Practical Training for Practicing Lawyers
Earlier this winter, the Advocacy Center co-hosted a three-day Plaintiffs’ Law Trial Skills College in partnership with the Oregon State Bar. Practicing attorneys from across the state participated in this intensive trial advocacy program, gaining hands-on experience in courtroom strategy, examination techniques, and persuasive argument development. Expert faculty provided real-time coaching in simulated trial settings, reinforcing the Advocacy Center’s commitment to both legal education and professional development.
National Trial Competition: Showcasing Top Trial Talent in Portland
In February, Lewis & Clark served as a proud regional host for the National Trial Competition (NTC)—one of the most prestigious trial advocacy tournaments in the nation. Held at the Multnomah County Courthouse, this year’s event brought together 22 teams from law schools across the region, over 100 volunteer judges and attorneys, and three days of spirited courtroom advocacy.
The competition gave students the chance to practice trial skills under pressure, connect with members of the bench and bar, and engage in the kind of real-world challenges they’ll face as litigators. Hosting NTC is just one example of how Lewis & Clark continues to prioritize experiential learning and legal excellence.
“Practical training opportunities at law school are increasingly important as AI changes the legal landscape,” said Lewis & Clark Law School Dean Alicia Ouellette. “The Advocacy Center’s work is a vital component of our commitment to providing practical training for our students. The Center’s activities, along with clinics and externships, give our students opportunities to learn practical skills for the courtroom and for client interactions.”
Mock Trial & Moot Court Successes: A Season to Celebrate
This year, over 45 Lewis & Clark Law School students competed in national interschool competitions in mock trial, moot court, contract drafting, client counseling, business law, patent drafting, and negotiation. These competitions not only refine students’ skills but also open doors to networking and future career opportunities.
This year’s standout performances include:
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Lane Kadish ’25, Sophie Keller ’26, and Michael Johnson ’25 won first place in the Pace Environmental Moot Court and won a Best Brief award as well;
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Three Lewis & Clark teams (Mikki Ness ’26 & Jeremy Beckham ’25; Molly Petit ’26 & Isaiah Putnam ’26; and Alina Stircu ’26 & West Aron ’25) finished in the top 8 teams for the National Trial Competition Pacific Northwest Regional competition with two of the teams (Mikki & Jeremy and Molly & Isaiah) making the semifinal round;
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Krissi McVay ’25, Alpha Tessema ’25, Lex Shvartsmann ’25, and Thelma Martinez Gonzalez ’26 advanced to the semi-finals of the Syracuse National Deposition Competition;
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West Aron ’25, Hollis Robb ’26, and Brittany Mullen ’26 took first place in contract drafting at the Wayne State M&A Transactions Competition;
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Sophie Webster ’26 and Ashlee Henry ’25 advanced to the quarterfinals in the MSU Gender & Sexuality Moot Court Competition, narrowly missing the semifinals in a competitive matchup; and
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Chris Timmer ’26 and Charlie Morris ’26 made it to the elite 8 out of 64 teams in the ABA M&A MAC CUP II Invitational.
Faculty, adjuncts, and lawyering professors have played a crucial role in supporting student competitors throughout the year, building on the strong foundations set during the 1L curriculum.
Looking Ahead
With competition season wrapping up and spring in full bloom, the Advocacy Center remains focused on delivering top-tier experiential learning opportunities and professional programming. From courtroom wins to lifelong skills, students are walking away empowered, practiced, and ready to advocate.
Learn more about the Advocacy Center’s impact and how to get involved.
