Dr. Sanford Silverburg, professor of political science at Catawba College, is one of the judges in the 2011 Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition. The International Law Students Association of Chicago, Ill. coordinates the competition, now in its 52nd year.
The Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition is the world's largest moot court competition, with participants from over 500 law schools in more than 80 countries. The competition is a simulation of a fictional dispute between countries before the International Court of Justice, the judicial organ of the United Nations. One team is allowed to participate from every eligible school. Teams prepare oral and written pleadings arguing both the applicant and respondent positions of the case.
Thousands of law students from around the world will work all year long on this season's Jessup Problem, which will address the legality of the use of unmanned drones and international anti-corruption law. Most students must first compete in national and regional competitions (mostly held in January-March) to earn the right to advance to the White & Case International Rounds held every spring in Washington, D.C.
A member of Catawba College's faculty since 1970, Silverburg is a specialist in international relations and international law as well as the government and politics of the Middle East. He has published and lectured internationally, speaking to both academic and community groups, and has broad experience with government and military affairs.
