The University of Manitoba Faculty of Law took part in the Western (MacIntyre) Criminal Trial Moot on Feb 13 – 14, 2026. This competition is part of a trial advocacy series that starts with the Faculty of Law’s in-house Solomon Greenberg competition held each fall term. The top two students go on to represent Manitoba at the Western (MacIntyre) Cup. Priya Kaur Dhillon (3L) and Jasmine Yakabowich (3L) represented Robson Hall at the this year, and were coached by Laura Robinson [LLB/09] and Evan Roitenberg [LLB/91] of Wolson Roitenberg Robinson Wolson, and Adam Gingera [BA/10; JD/16] of Manitoba Justice Prosecutions Service.
The 2026 competition was hosted by Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC. While Team Manitoba did not advance in the rounds, the experience was a highlight of both students’ practical law school education. Working with their knowledgeable and experienced coaches was “both inspiring and so much fun,” Dhillon said. “They challenged us to think deeper, pushed us to improve, and believed in our abilities even at times when we doubted ourselves. Their mentorship made the experience unforgettable and pushed us to become better advocates.”
The experience also confirmed for Dhillon that litigation is the legal career path she wants to pursue. “Being able to step into that role, work through complex arguments, and advocate alongside such supportive mentors was incredibly motivating,” she said.
“One of the biggest lessons I took away from the experience is that no matter how much preparation you put in, there will always be moments you don’t expect. What defines a strong litigator is the ability to adapt in those moments, think on your feet, and confidently work through the unexpected.”
Other memorable experiences included connecting with other law students from across Western Canada. “Sharing ideas, learning from one another, and building those connections made the experience even more special and reminded me how collaborative and supportive the legal community can be,” said Dhillon.
