USD Law Competes at National Military Justice Competition at Syracuse Law School
The competition, hosted in Syracuse, New York, enabled students to take their advocacy to the next level and gain tangible experience that will benefit them as they enter their legal careers. Team members include Cortni Bowman, Natalee Hanway, Rodney Axson Jr. and Nathan Mantei.
Coaches include Anthony Leonardi, J.D. ’24, Kaleb Paulsen, J.D. ’18 and Laura Rose, J.D., associate professor and Heidepriem Trial Advocacy fellow.
“Advocating in the competition was a highlight of my law school career. My teammates and I took on the task of learning a new set of rules and customs,” said Bowman. “I couldn't be prouder of our performance. Bringing an award for Best Cross-Examination back home to South Dakota means so much to me because it directly reflects the hard work and dedication put forth by my coaches and teammates.”
Hanway showed impressive resilience when recovering from multiple improper objections during her opening statement.
“Getting to the competition, seeing the other teams, and arguing against them made me realize just how great the trial advocacy training at USD is,” said Hanway. “It was hard work prepping for the competition, but once we were there, it was clear just how much our work was going to pay off. I am so proud of my teammates and how we did; I can’t wait to return next year.”
Axson Jr., known for his natural ability to engage a room and adjust his closing on a case-by-case basis, demonstrated skills that, according to Paulsen, are “impossible to teach” in addition to excelling as a witness.
“Representing USD and hearing the compliments we received from judges meant so much to me and made me so proud. This trip showed me how well USD prepares us for our careers,” said Axson.
Mantei’s final closing argument left a lasting impact with his passionate and professional delivery.
“This was my third competition with the team and the first time USD participated in the National Military Justice Competition. As president of the organization, I could not be happier with our performance,” said Mantei. “I am a member of the South Dakota Army National Guard and hope to one day become a JAG officer, so this opportunity was an invaluable experience. Our success would not have been possible without the support from the school, the trial team program and the coaches.”
“I truly value seeing the drive and dedication that the students displayed and the countless hours they put in. They consistently went above and beyond, scheduling individual practices and sacrificing their limited free time to improve their craft,” said Paulsen. “Any firm would be fortunate to have them given their advanced trial skills, which will only continue to improve.”
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