Campbell Law School’s Darren Stephens ’26 delivered an exceptional performance at the 2026 Duberstein Bankruptcy Moot Court Competition, finishing among the top five advocates out of roughly 150 students from law schools across the country.
“His placement puts him in the highest tier of competitors at one of the nation’s most respected advocacy events,” said Rene Shekmer, director of the law school’s Competitive Advocacy Program.
Stephens competed as part of a three‑member team with William Alfonso ’26 and Kevin Goodman ’27. The group was coached by Margaret Westbrook and Lydia Carpenter ’20, who guided the students through months of preparation and practice.
“Their combined effort resulted in a strong showing for the team and a standout individual achievement for Stephens,” Shekmer added.
The competition was held Feb. 27 through March 2 at St. John’s University in Queens, New York. Jointly sponsored by St. John’s Law and the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI), the Duberstein Competition is widely regarded as the premier moot court event focused on bankruptcy law.
Each year, it draws teams from across the country to brief and argue complex, timely issues in bankruptcy practice. Students participate in at least two preliminary rounds, arguing on alternating sides, and 16 teams advance to the elimination rounds. Panels of bankruptcy practitioners judge the briefs and preliminary arguments, while leading appellate and bankruptcy judges preside over the advanced rounds.
One of the hallmarks of the Duberstein Competition is its accessibility: students do not need prior bankruptcy law experience to compete or advance. All participants receive a certificate of achievement, recognizing the rigor of the event and the skill required to participate. The competition honors the legacy of the late Chief Bankruptcy Judge Conrad B. Duberstein, a 1941 graduate of St. John’s Law and an early director of ABI. His commitment to bankruptcy education helped establish St. John’s as a national leader in the field, including its renowned LL.M. in Bankruptcy program. ABI, the competition’s co‑sponsor, is the largest multidisciplinary organization devoted to research and education on insolvency issues.
Shekmer added Stephens’ top‑five finish reflects not only his individual talent but also the strength of the team’s preparation and the support of their coaches.
“Alfonso and Goodman contributed to a cohesive and well‑prepared group effort, demonstrating the depth of advocacy skill within the program,” she said. “Coaches Westbrook and Carpenter provided essential guidance, helping the students refine their arguments, strengthen their command of the issues and develop the confidence needed to excel before seasoned judges. Stephens’ performance stands out as a significant accomplishment and a point of pride for the team and the broader program.”
The Duberstein Competition is often a defining experience for students interested in litigation, appellate advocacy or bankruptcy practice. It offers the chance to engage deeply with complex legal questions, receive feedback from leading practitioners and develop skills that translate directly into professional success.
