University of Houston Law Center Announces Hicks Thomas LLP as Title Sponsor for Moot Court Championship

Hicks Thomas LLP Takes Center Stage at the Moot Court National Championship

The University of Houston Law Center (UHLC) has officially partnered with Hicks Thomas LLP, an established litigation boutique, to serve as the title sponsor for this year's Moot Court National Championship. This prestigious competition, which showcases the finest in appellate advocacy, took place from January 23 to 25, 2025, at the Bob Casey United States Courthouse in Houston, Texas.

Hicks Thomas LLP, which has made its mark in the legal world since its inception in 1997, will now be associated with an event that embodies excellence in legal education. John Thomas, a partner at the firm, expressed pride in this collaboration, emphasizing that the competition mirrors the core values that the firm stands for—rigor, creativity, and expertise in argumentation. "We are honored to partner with the University of Houston Law Center in supporting the Moot Court National Championship," said Thomas, reinforcing the idea that such competitions are pivotal in shaping the next generation of skilled legal professionals.

The Moot Court National Championship is widely regarded as one of the most esteemed moot court competitions in the United States, bringing together the top 16 programs to test their mettle in a challenging legal arena. This year’s event concluded with the Seton Hall University School of Law emerging victorious, represented by students Emma Taylor and Christopher Frey, who also snagged the Best Brief award. Furthermore, the Best Speaker award went to Garfield McIntyre Jr. from the University of Georgia School of Law, underscoring the diverse talent present at the championship.

The participation of Hicks Thomas LLP carries more than just financial backing; the firm actively engaged in various aspects of the competition, including judging rounds and the awards ceremony. This involvement provided a unique opportunity for participants to interact with esteemed members of the legal community, gaining insights into the nuances of practicing law in real-world settings.

Reflecting on this event, Amy Hawk, Director of the Blakely Advocacy Institute at UHLC, expressed gratitude towards Hicks Thomas LLP for their substantial support. She highlighted the significance of moot court programs in nurturing legal talent and providing a platform for students to refine their advocacy skills. The collaborative effort between the firm and the law center emphasizes not only the importance of legal education but also the vital role of community partnerships in fostering future leaders in the field.

The 2025 Hicks Thomas LLP Moot Court National Championship was a testament to exceptional legal argumentation, collaboration, and the commitment of all parties involved. With this sponsorship, Hicks Thomas LLP and the University of Houston Law Center are poised to inspire the next wave of courtroom advocates, setting high standards for the legal profession.

For those interested in further information regarding the event or partnerships, contact Carrie Anna Criado, Assistant Dean for Communications and Marketing at UH Law Center, or Rashda Khan, Communications Director for additional inquiries.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Hicks Thomas LLP and the University of Houston Law Center represents a significant step in promoting legal education, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex legal landscape.