The Inner Temple’s annual internal moot, the Lawson culminated in a dramatic final on 18th March 2011. This year’s Lawson Moot was the biggest and most ambitious to date: 100 of the Inner Temple’s Student Members participated in the first round; and, the final moot problem was more challenging than in previous competitions.

Over 120 guests filled the Inner Temple Hall to watch the final moot and to support mooting within the Inner Temple. The guests were treated to an evening of fine mooting, wine and live music (provided by KCL’s Jazz Quintet The Kings of Soul).

The final of the Lawson Moot 2011 was judged by Master Stanley Brodie QC, former Treasurer of the Inner Temple. Master Brodie’s judicial interventions were challenging and thought-provoking and much enjoyed by the audience. After hearing the finalist’s submissions the judge rose to consider his judgement. Master Brodie was impressed with the quality of all of the finalist’s preparation and mooting abilities.

The winner of the Lawson Moot 2011 is Richard Gibbs. Mr Gibbs impressed the judges throughout the competition and was praised for his performance at the final. Mr Gibbs is currently studying for the GDL at the University of Birmingham and is actively applying for pupillage.