On 22 October 2024, the legal community of students, coaches, professors, and professionals from Clifford Chance and the University of Luxembourg gathered to celebrate the launch of a new Moot Court season.
The Moot Court Programme at the University of Luxembourg is an experiential legal education initiative where Master’s students participate in simulated court proceedings, drafting briefs and presenting oral arguments on fictitious cases. This hands-on experience enhances their legal knowledge, advocacy skills, and teamwork, preparing them for successful legal careers while also offering academic credits and networking opportunities. For 10 years, the partnership between the University of Luxembourg and Clifford Chance has combined financial contributions with mentoring and coaching, ensuring that students receive both the resources and guidance needed to succeed in international competitions.
Dr. Susana Muñoz, Moot Court Coordinator and Katia Gauzès, Managing Partner at Clifford Chance Luxembourg
During the welcome ceremony, Katia Gauzès, Managing Partner at Clifford Chance Luxembourg, greeted the new moot court teams and expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming season. She thanked the students for their motivation and engagement, saying, “I know this requires a significant commitment from you, as well as from the coaches, the University team, and our lawyers at Clifford Chance. It is a continuous effort for everyone involved, and I’m proud to see so many familiar faces returning each year. Supporting this programme is important to us because it aligns with our values of excellence, commitment, and the desire to continuously improve. These are not just goals for the beginning of a career, but guiding principles for a lifetime. We’re thrilled to be a part of this journey with you.”
Katia Gauzès, Managing Partner at Clifford Chance Luxembourg
On behalf of the Faculty of Law, Economics and Finance (FDEF), Herwig Hofmann, Professor of European and Transnational Public Law, expressed his appreciation for the partnership and the support of the moot court teams. He said, “This is the opening of a new moot court season, full of energy, emotion, and hard work. Moot court is not only one of the best ways to learn law, but also to transform theoretical ideas into practical applications. It’s about pushing boundaries and learning to acquire and activate knowledge in real-world scenarios. These experiences, along with the personal and legal skills you develop, will set you apart. The commitment and support from Clifford Chance, both in providing financial resources and offering feedback to our teams, is invaluable.”
Herwig Hofmann, Professor of European and Transnational Public Law
Following that, Dr. Susana Muñoz, Moot Court Coordinator at the Faculty of Law, Economics and Finance (FDEF), gave an inspiring speech to the students, using flight as a metaphor for the moot court experience. She said, “Like young pilots, this year you will get to test one of the best flight simulator cabins available. Immersed in this exciting journey within the simulation bubble, there will be no risks beyond our own challenges, and many opportunities to advance both personally and professionally. It is crucial to make the most of this path to learn, and, at the same time, develop the skills that will allow you to refine your legal competencies over time with the support of your flight instructors, the moot court coaches.”
Dr. Muñoz continued by explaining the details of the competitions and introducing the coaches, students, teams, and the complex cases they would be working on. Concluding her remarks, Dr. Muñoz encouraged students:
‟ As you embark on this journey, like skilled pilots in command of your flight, or like the owl —our moot court programme symbol— soaring through the night with clarity and purpose, remember that every challenge you face will sharpen your instincts and strengthen your determination. Trust in your preparation, rely on your team, and let your journey through the skies of this moot court be one of growth, wisdom, and fearless pursuit of excellence.”
Moot Court Coordinator
Dr. Susana Muñoz, Moot Court Coordinator
The ceremony concluded with a networking session, allowing students to connect with peers and legal professionals, setting the tone for a successful and rewarding mooting season.
Moot Court teams
As students embark on this exciting and challenging journey, the FDEF wishes all the participants the best of luck and a wonderful and enriching mooting season.