Memorial

Term from Arbitration industry explained for recruiters

Memorial is a formal written document used in international arbitration and legal proceedings. It's similar to a detailed legal brief that presents a party's complete argument and evidence in a case. Think of it as a comprehensive legal story that includes all facts, legal arguments, and supporting documents. When recruiters see this term in resumes, it usually means the candidate has experience preparing these important legal documents for international disputes or arbitration cases. Some similar terms include "written submissions," "briefs," or "pleadings," though Memorial is specifically used in international arbitration contexts.

Examples in Resumes

Drafted Memorial for $500M international construction dispute

Led team in preparing Memorial and Counter-Memorial in investor-state arbitration

Coordinated research and evidence gathering for investment treaty Memorial

Typical job title: "International Arbitration Lawyers"

Also try searching for:

Arbitration Associate International Disputes Lawyer Investment Treaty Lawyer International Arbitration Counsel Disputes Attorney

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach structuring a Memorial for a complex international arbitration case?

Expected Answer: A senior lawyer should discuss organizing facts chronologically, incorporating witness statements and expert reports, developing legal theory, and managing junior team members in the drafting process.

Q: How do you ensure consistency between the Memorial and oral arguments in a case?

Expected Answer: Should explain coordinating written and oral strategy, maintaining theme continuity, and preparing oral advocates based on written submissions.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of a Memorial?

Expected Answer: Should mention factual background, jurisdiction arguments, merits of the case, damages calculations, and how evidence supports each section.

Q: How do you manage document production in relation to Memorial drafting?

Expected Answer: Should explain coordinating document requests, reviewing productions, and incorporating key documents into the Memorial narrative.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What research typically goes into preparing a Memorial?

Expected Answer: Should discuss legal research, fact gathering, reviewing case documents, and working with senior lawyers to understand case strategy.

Q: How do you organize exhibits and sources for a Memorial?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic citation formats, exhibit numbering systems, and maintaining factual accuracy in submissions.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Legal research and writing
  • Document review and organization
  • Citation checking
  • Exhibit compilation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Draft sections of Memorials
  • Manage document production
  • Coordinate with experts
  • Support oral argument preparation

Senior (5+ years)

  • Lead Memorial strategy
  • Supervise drafting teams
  • Client relationship management
  • Case strategy development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No international arbitration experience
  • Poor writing skills
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No experience with major arbitration institutions (ICC, ICSID, etc.)
  • Unable to explain basic arbitration procedures

Related Terms