University of New Mexico School of Law student Anna Martinez won the prize for “best oralist” and April Winecke for “best brief” at the National Native American Law Students Association (NALSA) moot court competition held last week in Denver.
In addition, Martinez and Brenna Clani advanced to the semifinals. Mary Carmack, Natasha Young and April Winecke made it to the final sixteen. A total of 48 teams participated.
Winecke earned “best brief” with her moot court partner Kevin McCulloch of Yale University. Typically, the winning brief is later published in the American Indian Law Review Journal. The brief concerned the Indian Child Welfare Act.
UNM teams have participated in the NALSA competition since its inception in 1993. Open to all students, teams of two submit their briefs and engage in oral arguments on a current issues involving indigenous peoples in the United States. NALSA promotes the study of federal Indian law and supports Native American students in law school.
Dan Rey-Bear and Doreen Hobson from the law firm of Nordhaus, Haltom, Taylor, Taradash and Bladh, LLP, coached the students. “This is a good opportunity to mentor law students and help them gain valuable skills. They gain experience practicing oral arguments and learn how to think on their feet,” Rey Bear said. “The UNM students were well-prepared [to compete nationally].”
Contact: Laurie Mellas-Ramirez (505) 277-5915
Posted by kwentworth at February 18, 2004 03:51 PM