Flinders Law Students Association

 

WHAT DOES TIMEKEEPING ENTAIL?

All FLSA competitions have time limits which competitors need to adhere to out of fairness and practicality. As outlined in the Rules of each competition, going overtime will usually result in penalties applying. While keeping time might sound simple enough, Judges are busy focussing on interacting with the competitors, whilst competitors are more than preoccupied with presenting their arguments. We consequently need responsible and independent third parties to act as timekeepers in our various competitions.

That being said, don't panic! This is not something which requires a lot of work, as you will see below. All timekeepers are given instructions regarding what they need to do throughout their timeslot.

OPEN MOOT

In the Open Moot, the timekeeper is responsible for timing each competitor’s oral submission (essentially the time in which they stand up and present to the Judge.) Mooters are given notice at various stages in their presentation as to how much time is remaining. The job of the timekeeper is therefore, essentially, threefold:

1. Keep track of the time which has passed for each mooter
2. Notify the relevant competitor & Judge when there are 10, 5, and 1 minutes to go as well as when time has elapsed by holding up a sign (provided for)
3. Write, on the provided form, how long each competitor spoke for, whether they requested extra time from the Judge (if necessary) and whether the Judge granted this extension of time.

WITNESS EXAM

Timekeeping in the Witness Exam runs very similarly to that of the Open Moot. Competitors are allocated a time in which they are allowed to interview the relevant witness. Timekeepers are required to keep track of the time that has passed and inform all parties (the witness, competitor and Judge) when there is 5 and then 1 minute to go.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

As a timekeeper, you get a 'front row' seat as to how competitors perform. There is no better way to learn the proper techniques than by watching others take part (except, of course, for participating yourself!) Timekeeping also gives you the opportunity to learn about different areas of law - moot questions are traditionally interesting in nature and thus you are able to see how legal theory would apply to a real life situation.

You are also doing the Competitions Team - and all competitors - a huge favour. Remember, in the future you may well want to participate yourself and will want others to help ensure your own competitions go smoothly. These sorts of things only work if everyone pitches in to help out, so if you could offer even an hour of your time we'd really appreciate it.

 

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