Hammond Cup 2025 - Advocacy Competition
This esteemed advocacy contest stands out as a unique event in the UK and holds a significant place in the history of Nottinghamshire Law Society. For over 55 years, this competition has been a regular feature, providing a platform for four finalists to showcase their advocacy skills in either criminal or civil cases, all while being evaluated by esteemed Judges from the Nottingham judiciary circuit. Participating in this competition not only hones advocacy abilities but also offers valuable free training sessions courtesy of Nottingham Law School. It is an indispensable experience for aspiring junior lawyers. The competition is in two rounds, the first round will take place on Thursday 13 March 2025 at the Nottingham Law School, with the final being held on Wednesday 30th April 2025.
The competition is open to students (including LPC, SQE and bar training course) and those still engaged in professional training in the workplace (including trainee solicitors and those doing SRA SQE, solicitors and paralegal apprentices, pupil barristers (first seat only), paralegals (with up to 2 years’ experience) who work and/or study in Nottinghamshire. The Hammond Cup provides competitors an opportunity to practice their advocacy skills in a realistic court room setting, with feedback experienced practitioners and professional Judges.
In round one, candidates will have the choice of whether to present a ten minute Criminal Sentencing Exercise or Civil Application.
The judges will be looking for candidates who show clarity of expression, thoroughness and, of course persuasiveness. In preparation for the advocacy competition, there will be Advocacy training sessions hosted by Nottingham Law School. Dates of the sessions are yet to be confirmed, the advocacy training is free of charge.
The four candidates with the highest score will be invited to participate in the final in the week commencing 28th April, provisionally on Thursday 1st May 2025. A distinguished panel of judges from the Court Circuit will score the candidates and decide on the winner of the Hammond Cup 2025. Prizes will be presented at the Nottinghamshire Law Society AGM on Tuesday 13th May 2025.
Prizes are awarded as follows:
1st Prize - £300, an engraved trophy, plus the opportunity to shadow the judiciary for an arranged period of time (2-3 days max) & certificate
2nd Prize - £150 & certificate
Runners Up - £50 and certificate
If you would like to enter, simply download the Hammond Cup Entry 2025 Entry form and return to Head of Operations, Michelle Foster at michelle.foster@nottslawsoc.org by Friday 21st February 2025, 5pm.