Sweetser Closing Argument Competition
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- 90-minute timeslots available between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (participants are only present for their scheduled slot)
- Limited to 30 participants
- No preparation needed
Prizes:
- First place: $3,000
- Second place: $2,000
- Third place: $1,000
About the Competition
The Sweetser Closing Argument Competition is an exciting educational event sponsored by Sweetser Law Office, a Spokane-based personal injury firm. This competition gives students the opportunity to showcase their trial advocacy skills, refine oral presentation abilities, and compete for cash prizes awarded by a panel of experienced trial attorneys.
Learn more about Sweetser Law Office.
Competition Rules
Eligibility
- Open to all Gonzaga Law students. Limited to 30 participants. (Full- and part-time students pursuing a J.D. at Gonzaga Law School)
- No pre-event preparation needed.
- No classroom credit for participating.
Competition Format
- Participants receive a fact pattern and jury instructions one hour before delivering your closing argument (maximum 15 minutes).
- Closing arguments are video recorded and evaluated by a panel of judges.
- Winners are announced at a reception on April 9, 2026.
Entry Submission
Click the button below to register for the competition. Space is limited. If the maximum participation cap (30) is reached, additional interested students will be placed on a waitlist and 3Ls will be given priority.
Entry Review
The closing arguments are video recorded and evaluated by a panel of experienced judges. Participants receive a copy of their recorded argument and written feedback from judges.
Reception and Winners
The finalists will be announced at the award reception on April 9, 2026.
Compliance and Decisions
The Competition Committee may refuse to consider entries that do not comply with the competition rules. Competition Committee decisions will be final.
Rule Revisions
The competition rules may be revised or supplemented by the Competition Committee or Gonzaga Law School at any time before or up to the start of the competition.
Questions
Please feel free to reach out to Carol Osenga, osenga@gonzaga.edu if you have any questions about participation or volunteering at this event.