Andover High graduate Jon Simpson, KU teammate win top brief in moot court competition

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Matt Huntsman, left, and Jon Simpson, right

LAWRENCE, KS (02/10/2014)(readMedia)-- University of Kansas Law students Jon Simpson, Wichita, and Matt Huntsman, of Sherman, Texas, are the latest to join the school's legacy of success in international moot court activities. The pair brought home top honors for their written brief at the North American rounds of the Stetson International Environmental Law Moot Court Competition, which was Jan. 24-26 in Denver.

Simpson is the son of Clark and Rita Simpson, Wichita, and is a graduate of Andover High School. He received his undergraduate degree from Kansas State University.

"Their oral advocacy was strong, they learned a lot, and they met interesting colleagues at several other law schools," KU Law professor and team coach John Head said. "And of course I'm thrilled at the success they enjoyed with their written submission. It's a fine achievement, and I'm over-the-top pleased for them and proud of their work."

Teams from the University of Kansas and the Bahamas gathered in Denver for the North American competition, which focused on international, environmental and human rights law. Wake Forest, the University of Maryland, Pepperdine and American University were among the participants, with the University of Hawaii and the University of California-Hastings advancing to the international rounds and KU's brief named the best of the competition.

Simpson and Huntsman spent five months preparing for the event. As newcomers to the field, they did extensive research. "I literally had to start from scratch and work my way through various treaties, articles and books," Huntsman said. "It probably worked to my advantage. Had we dealt with a more familiar area of law, I doubt I would have taken the time to approach every issue in such a thorough way."

Huntsman and Simpson credit their faculty mentors with their success and are confident that the skills gained through the competition will serve them well in their future careers. "More than anything, I credit the Stetson competition for providing me the opportunity to refine my advocacy skills."  Simpson said. "But I also appreciate the experience for exposing me to new areas of law."

Currently in its 18th year, the Stetson International Environmental Law moot court competition features schools from all over the world. This year's theme focused on sea turtle protection and cultural practices, challenging participants to consider the legal implications of pitting indigenous people's rights against protection of endangered species. Simpson and Huntsman continue a strong KU tradition of excellence in national and international moot court competition. Jayhawks brought home top honors for their briefs at the Herbert Wechsler National Criminal Law Moot Court Competition and Mardi Gras Sports Law Competition in 2012. Last year KU Law became one of only two American law schools to advance teams to the finals of both the European Law Students Association and the Jessup  International Law Moot Court Competition in the same year.

KU Law students participate in an in-house moot court competition during their second year of law school, with top performers representing KU at national and international competitions during their third year.