Local Law Student Teagan McNary Wins 2024 Sam Masten Moot Court Competition

The Sam Masten Moot Court Competition, an important event in legal education, has named Teagan McNary as the 2024 winner. The competition started on March 22, with 55 first-year students demonstrating their legal argument skills. McNary and Julianne Severson, the runner-up, presented their cases to a panel of legal professionals, including Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen, Justice Mark E. Salter, and attorney James Moore.

The Sam Masten Competition provides law students with initial courtroom experience. It allows them to practice appellate oral arguments and improve advocacy skills. McNary found the experience beneficial, appreciating the chance to argue before experienced attorneys and judges and receive feedback.

The competition is named after Sam Masten, a South Dakota trial lawyer who served the Canton area and taught at the USD Knudson School of Law. Justice Salter commended the competition's high standard, comparing it to a professional round in an appellate setting.

Taylor Anderson, a senior board member of the Moot Court Board, expressed satisfaction with the event, emphasizing its role in giving students a chance to apply their knowledge in a practical setting. The competition also helps students connect with the local legal community.

The first Spirit of Sam Masten award, which recognizes professionalism, dedication, perseverance, candor, and ethics, was given to first-year student Conrad Tanyi. The competition ended with a networking event sponsored by Woods Fuller at the Old Lumber Company.

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