Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS)

APPROXIMATE COMMITTEE SIZE: 17 delegates

Those familiar with the conference may recognize that the Supreme Court of the United States is NAIMUN’s longest-running committee — a testament not only to its substantive success, but also to the meaningful and enjoyable experience it provides delegates each year. While structure and staffing play key roles, it’s ultimately the passion and dedication of the delegates that shape SCOTUS and drive its continued success. SCOTUS challenges delegates to deeply engage with three distinct cases (one historical, one contemporary, and one hypothetical) each requiring mastery of the case facts, relevant precedents, and broader constitutional jurisprudence. Over the course of the weekend, participants will step into the shoes of justices, attorneys, and special interest representatives, gaining a nuanced understanding of constitutional law and the workings of the U.S. Supreme Court. NAIMUN takes pride in the legacy of its Supreme Court committees, not only for their rigorous academic standards, but for the opportunity they offer seventeen passionate students each year to explore some of the most complex and pressing legal questions in American history. For many, SCOTUS at NAIMUN marks the beginning of a lasting interest in the law. This year’s docket includes one case from each category: historical, contemporary, and hypothetical. All three will be tried as closed cases, meaning delegates will receive a curated list of precedents, and may not reference any outside rulings unless directly cited within the provided materials.

Note: Technology may be allowed in SCOTUS at the chair’s discretion.

CHAIR: Avelyn bailey

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 

• Receive an understanding of the basics of legal argument, analyzing a case, and debating the merits of legal viewpoints. 

• Learn the process of a Supreme Court appeal, from briefings to oral arguments to opinion writing, and the varying duties of each party to a case.

• Come to understand what separates SCOTUS from the legislative and executive branches of government and substantive legal issues. 

• Develop important communicative skills through oral argumentation and defense.

aBOUT THE CHAIR

Avelyn Bailey is a member of the School of Foreign Service Class of 2028 intending to major in Culture and Politics. Originally from South Carolina, she got her start in mock government at Palmetto Girls State. Avelyn has since staffed NAIMUN’s collegiate and middle school sister conferences NCSC and DistrictMUN, including a tenure on the NCSC LIII Secretariat. She is also on the Georgetown Undergraduate Moot Court Team, where she competes in oral arguments and co-authored a nationally ranked appellate brief. When she’s not poring over Court opinions or sneaking puns into crisis note responses, you can find Avelyn building set pieces for Mask & Bauble Dramatic Society or admiring art of the American West in one of DC’s many museums.