The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Black Law Student Association (BLSA) Mock Trial Team delivered a standout performance at the 2024–2025 Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition, with a top two finish in the entire Northeast region. The Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition was held as part of the 57th Annual Northeast Black Law Students Association (NEBLSA) Regional Convention.
The Haub Law BLSA team traveled to Boston, Massachusetts to compete in the highly competitive and prestigious competition, known for its rigorous standards and elite competitors. Over the course of four intense days, the Haub Law team, comprised of Julie Bazile (2L), Jason Lee (4L Flex), Andrew Pierre (3L), and Ashley Baizas (3L), competed in five back-to-back rounds, facing off against thirteen of the most talented teams across the Northeast region. The team was accompanied and coached by Adjunct Professor Betty Lawrence Lewis Esq., Pernell Telfort Esq., and alumni coaches Brianna Pryce, Esq. ’20, and Jamal J. Wyse, Esq. ’19.
“Each round tested our skills in trial advocacy, including opening statements, witness examinations, objections, and closing arguments, all before panels of experienced judges and legal professions,” said student team member Jason Lee (4L Flex). “Our preparation, teamwork, and dedication were on full display as we demonstrated our command of the law, sharp analytical skills, and persuasive courtroom presence. The competition was fierce, but we remained composed under pressure, adapting to each new challenge and opponent with confidence and professionalism.”
A true testament to the team’s hard work and talent, not only did Haub Law’s BLSA team finish in the top two, but Julie Bazile (2L) received an individual award for Best Prosecution Advocate. “This experience not only strengthened our legal skills, but also deepened our passion for advocacy, teamwork, and the pursuit of justice,” said Black Law Student Association President and team student member, Julie Bazile (2L). “Competing in the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial was an unforgettable milestone, and we are proud to have represented our school with excellence and integrity.”
“I continue to be so proud and confident of the outstanding work of Haub Law’s BLSA teams,” said Professor Louis Fasulo, Director of Advocacy Programs and Professor of Trial Practice. “Under the direction of great coaching this team once again is going to Nationals. It is a tribute to great advocacy skills, hard work and a true competitive spirit.”
The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s trial advocacy program is consistently ranked among the top institutions by U.S. News and World Report, with the most recent ranking of #13 in the nation, placing it impressively among the top 10% of schools nationwide.
On Monday, February 10, 2025, the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University welcomed Professor Michael C. Dorf, Robert S. Stevens Professor of Law at Cornell Law School as the speaker for the 2025 Dyson Distinguished Lecture. His lecture was entitled: “Play in the Joints of the Religion Clauses and Law More Broadly.”
Elisabeth Haub School of Law Professor Bennett Gershman speaks with CBS News about the legal battle over NYC’s congestion pricing program, noting that a judge has already upheld the plan and that President Trump does not have the authority to overturn it.
Bennett Gershman, professor of law at Pace University, told Newsweek: "Trump's Executive Order seeking to outlaw so called Birthright Citizenship is itself unlawful and will be easily struck down. "Mr. Trump may not like the constitutional rule. But however much he would like to, he does not have the power to flout the Constitution. He would need to get Congress and the states to amend the constitution to implement his objective."