Rose Agnew (2024, Jurisprudence) looks ahead to the 2026 International Roman Law Moot:

Last year, the moot was hosted (and won) by Oxford, with fellow Christ Church student Raphael Monteiro (2023, Jurisprudence) part of the winning team. This year, the competition will take place in Trier, Germany – where we hope to defend the title!

On this year's team are myself and Louise (from Christ Church) who will argue for the defendant, and Saanvi and Lorna (from New and Merton respectively) who will argue on behalf of the plaintiff. Our moot problem this year revolves around two core issues: namely, the ownership of an island that has emerged in the middle of a river, where the banks on either side are owned by different parties, and the possession and ownership of a lion that escaped a menagerie in Constantinople. These are two fascinating legal dilemmas with deep roots in Roman law.

Our team is fortunate to have been coached by two distinguished experts: Regius Professor of Roman Law, Wolfgang Ernst, at All Souls and Professor Ciara Kennefick from Christ Church. Their guidance has been invaluable in preparing us for the intellectual and practical challenges of the moot, with practice mooting sessions which have tested the strength of our arguments and our advocacy. We are thrilled to represent Oxford in this prestigious event and look forward to the challenge of applying Roman legal concepts in a courtroom setting.

The International Roman Law Moot promises to be an unforgettable experience, which will enrich our understanding of both Roman law. We are eager to meet fellow legal scholars from across the globe and showcase the depth of Oxford’s legal education in this unique, and distinguished, forum!