The Animal Law and Policy Institute celebrates two Vermont Law and Graduate School students who participated in the Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition, an event offering a profound opportunity for learning and advocacy in international environmental law. This year, the competition presented an intriguing challenge relating to the protection of mountain gorillas against the backdrop of oil extraction activities. Among the participants were Christina Ramsey JD/MCEP ‘25 and Hope McLellan-Brandt JD/MELP ‘24, whose involvement not only showcased their legal acumen but also highlighted the growing importance of animal law in international environmental conservation.
Guided by Professor Laura Fox, Director of the Farmed Animal Advocacy Clinic, Christina and Hope embarked on an educational journey that transcended traditional classroom learning. Their challenge was to address a complex international dispute involving environmental impact assessments and the protection of endangered mountain gorillas. This moot court problem served as a practical exploration of the complex intersections of animal law, environmental law, and international law.
Hope recounted that "participating in the Competition was an incredibly enriching experience. It was more than just a competition; it was a deep dive into the complexities of environmental and animal law. Crafting arguments to protect the mountain gorillas not only honed my legal skills but also deepened my commitment to environmental and animal advocacy.”
The skills practiced during this competition were multifaceted. Beyond the legal research and writing the team engaged in to prepare a memorial for the competition, Christina and Hope sharpened their oral advocacy skills, learning how to effectively communicate complex legal arguments and respond to judges' questions on the fly. These skills are indispensable in the field of law, especially for those aiming to make a significant impact in environmental and animal law advocacy.
Christina Ramsey stood out among her peers in the North America Regional Rounds, securing 3rd place for Best Oralist in the preliminary rounds. This distinction underscores her exceptional ability to articulate complex legal issues and advocate for her position with clarity and conviction. It was a testament to the hard work, preparation, and passion she and Hope brought to the competition.
According to Christina, “Winning 3rd Best Oralist was a proud moment, but the real victory was realizing the potential impact our voices can have in the legal battle for conservation. This competition has inspired me to continue fighting for the voiceless and to use the law as a tool for meaningful change."
Join us in congratulating Hope and Christina on their dedication and achievements during this competition!