LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Officer Selection Station Springfield with Marine Corps Recruiting Station Oklahoma City partnered with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law to host an Opening Statements Competition, giving law students the opportunity to showcase their skills to legal professionals and Marine leaders.
The event challenged participants to deliver compelling opening statements in a mock trial setting, testing their ability to organize facts, build persuasive narratives, and present arguments with confidence. Marines facilitated the competition to help strengthen advocacy skills while fostering relationships between the Corps and the legal community.
“The set up for this competition was very unique,” said Capt. Anna Dryden, the judge advocate recruiting officer for Western Recruiting Region.
A fact pattern was developed based on scenarios inspired by real-world challenges commonly addressed within the military justice system. The case file was provided to Bowen students only a few days in advance, allowing them minimal time to study and prepare. On the day prior to the competition, Marines hosted a “lunch and learn” session where students learned more about how they can practice law in the Marine Corps. Additionally, students had the opportunity to ask questions and gain insight into the mock situation before the competition.
Students then presented their arguments before a Marine Corps Judge Advocate and received professional military feedback on their performance. The exercise simulated the fast-paced environment of real-world trial work and reinforced the importance of quick preparation and confident delivery.
“This competition was very beneficial for law students no matter if they end up practicing as judge advocates or if they practice in the civilian capacity, because it gives them the chance to apply their skills to real world problem set,” said Dryden. “It gives them hands-on experience and practice doing something that is a basic part of what lawyers do, which is standing up and advocating.”
Diana Snyder, assistant dean for career services at Bowen Law School, emphasized the value the event provided her students.
“We are so appreciative of the Marines for hosting this event because it gave our students exposure to the Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps program, allowed them to practice their verbal skills in a courtroom setting, and provided them with valuable feedback that they can take with them through their legal careers,” Snyder said.
By creating realistic scenarios, providing mentorship, and encouraging advocacy, the Marine Corps continues to support educational initiatives while showcasing its commitment to leadership, discipline, and professional development both in and out of uniform.
This was the first time Bowen School of Law partnered with any military branch or other employers for an oral competition of this nature.
“In addition to exposing them to a wonderful career opportunity with the U.S. Marine Corps JAG program, it also gave them the chance to practice speaking in front of judges and peers, which is so important for success as a law student and attorney,” said Snyder. “I’m excited to do it again.”
| Date Taken: | 09.12.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.19.2025 13:21 |
| Story ID: | 548766 |
| Location: | LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS, US |
| Web Views: | 17 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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