The Murdoch Moot Program has won a 2017 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Programs that Enhance Learning, and recognises School of Law staff members Lorraine Finlay, Michelle Barron and Joseph Indaimo.

Mooting, which has been used for hundreds of years as a tool for training young lawyers, is where students take on the role of counsel in a fictional legal scenario which is tested before a panel of judges.

Murdoch’s Moot Program is unique compared to other WA universities and law schools in that it is not only available to a few select students but has been successfully integrated into the learning curriculum so that practical learning opportunities are accessible to every law student.

Over the past eight years, Murdoch’s high quality moot program has been characterised by its steady growth and innovative approach to learning and teaching which has enhanced the overall learning experience at Murdoch University.

The Moot Team receives $5,000 to be used to further enhance learning and teaching at Murdoch.

Lorraine Finlay

What motivates/inspires you in your job?

Getting to work with amazing students and staff!  It is always inspiring to see students grow in confidence during a moot and to realise what they are capable of achieving.

Why is the Mooting program important?

The moot program gives students an opportunity to develop their practical advocacy skills and to give them an insight into the ‘real world’ as a lawyer.  

What drew you to the field of law? Why do you think it is important?

I was drawn to law because I wanted to help be a voice for people who didn’t have one, and to help make our community a better place.  It is a standard answer that is often given to this question, but it happens to be true! 

In your opinion, what makes a good lawyer?

The law is all about people and their relationships with each other and with the State.  A good lawyer should never forget that what their work isn’t just theoretical, but has a real, practical impact on people’s lives.

See Lorraine's profile

Joseph Indaimo 

What does the award mean to you?

It’s great recognition of all the hard work that has been put in over the last 8 years by Lorraine and Michelle especially. But also the tremendous work put in by our law alumni, who come back to help out with coaching and judging.

Why is the Mooting program important?

It’s one of the few ‘real world’ legal experiences that a law school offers their students. Through mooting the students develop the real world skills which most units only teach in theory. And, perhaps even more importantly, through mooting students develop their confidence in their own advocacy skills and abilities.

In your opinion, what makes a good lawyer?

Someone who understands people and understands the power and privilege of being able to help others.

See Joseph's profile

Michelle Barron

What motivates/inspires you in your job?

Working with such dedicated and passionate staff, students and alumni.  They continue to make huge contributions to the Murdoch Moot Program, which has enabled the program to be so successful.

Why is the Mooting program important?

The core purpose of the Murdoch Moot Program is to provide all law students with the opportunity to engage with the moot program and to receive the highest possible standard of legal advocacy education.  We see mooting as a valuable way of developing the practical research, writing and advocacy skills that students will need when they enter the workforce, whilst also developing critical work skills such as teamwork, managing deadlines, and problem solving. 

See Michelle's profile