The 1st NUJS National Trial and Advocacy Competition seeks to recreate the dynamic and intellectually stimulating atmosphere of an Indian trial court, where the real essence of criminal justice unfolds. Unlike appellate courts that interpret the law on records, the trial court serves as the foundation where facts are unearthed, narratives are tested, and justice begins its journey. This competition is a sincere attempt to immerse law students in that crucial first stage of the justice delivery system, where every argument, piece of evidence, and witness testimony has the potential to alter the fate of a case. At its core, the competition aims to bridge the gap between legal theory and courtroom practice by simulating the procedural intricacies and emotional intensity that define trial advocacy. Participants will engage with every significant component of trial proceedings, from evidence collection and admissibility to examination-in-chief, cross-examination, and the presentation of expert testimony. The event promises to test not only the advocacy and oratory skills of the participants but also their command over the new substantive and procedural criminal laws. Every team shall demonstrate its ability to argue from both sides, prosecution and defence, mirroring the adversarial structure of real courtrooms. Organised by the Society for Advancement of Criminal Justice (SACJ), NUJS, the competition reflects the Society ’s long-standing effort to deepen engagement with criminal law and its practice. By hosting this event, SACJ hopes to offer students a glimpse into the human and intellectual demands of advocacy at the trial level; where every word can alter the course of justice.

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