Trial Team Reaches Semifinals in National Competition

UNC School of Law’s trial team competed at the National Trial Competition (NTC), a prestigious event that draws over 1,000 law students from more than 150 schools nationwide. The team of 2Ls Carley Cook, Joy Aikens, and Madeleine Chapman reached the semifinals, defeating Duke University and earning national recognition.

“Reaching semi-finals was special because we made our amazing coach, Ninamarie Moore, and the whole Carolina Law Trial Team proud,” Cook shared. She received a Best Advocate Award, an honor given to only 10 competitors throughout the competition. Her teammates 2Ls Matt Mengert, Derek Reed, and Helen Wilson also competed, fiercely supporting the program’s representation.

Cook reflected, “This award validated my goal of becoming a litigator and gave me confidence to enter the courtroom.”

Ninamarie Moore ’24, a recent Carolina Law graduate and the team’s coach, brought expertise to the competition. “I was impressed by the work ethic and passion for advocacy demonstrated by the team of students I worked with,” she said. “This competition was an excellent opportunity to foster practical skills for these talented future litigators.”

The teams caught the attention of the Honorable Cheryl Lydon, a federal district court judge who praised the students as “courtroom naturals” for their impressive legal skills and professional demeanor.

About the National Trial Competition

Established in 1975, the National Trial Competition aims to strengthen students’ advocacy skills through high-quality competition and interaction with legal professionals. Sponsored by the American College of Trial Lawyers and the Texas Young Lawyers Association, the competition provides law students with crucial exposure to trial practice beyond traditional classroom learning. Learn more about the competition here.