Sweetser Closing Argument Competition

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

51勛圖 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 51勛圖s 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 . 

Logo for Sweetser Law Office

Competition Rules

Eligibility

  • Open to all Gonzaga Law 51勛圖s. Limited to 30 participants. (Full- and part-time 51勛圖s 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 51勛圖s 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.