Apply for the National Mock Trial Competitions
The Mock Trial Competitions are our longest-running active learning experiences. Since 1991, we have provided unparalleled exposure to the judicial system, its venues and access to senior legal professionals.
Learn more before applying.
Bar Mock Trial Competition
The Bar Mock Trial Competition helps young people aged 15-18 understand how the law touches every aspect of their lives, gaining an insight into how the legal justice system works.
The deadline for applications is 10th September 2025.
The standard entry fee of £250 entitles you to competition preparation material, video resources, ongoing support from the Young Citizens Mock Trials team, cases and an allocation to a regional heat. Where possible, this will also include provision of a barrister mentor.
For £330, the Bar Mock Trial PLUS membership includes unlimited access for 12 months to more than twenty-five lessons, which tackle a number of SMSC, Citizenship and PSHE themes using the topic of the law, as well as the benefits listed above.
More information
How does it work?
Schools will be given access to resources, including specially written criminal cases, to help teams prepare legal arguments. After preparation, your team will take part in a regional heat and go head-to-head with other schools to prosecute and defend the cases. Winning teams will then compete in a National Final.
What do I need to do?
Our Mock Trial Competitions are designed to be accessible for everyone – you do not need any expertise in the law. Once your school has applied and paid the entrance fee, you will be given all the guidance you need to run the competition in your school.
Magistrates’ Mock Trial Competition
The Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial Competition is an immersive legal education programme for young people aged 12-14. Applications open soon!
The entry fee of £230 entitles you to competition preparation material, cases, online video resources, and allocation to a local heat. Where possible, this may include support from a Young Citizens Local Organiser and/or a liaison magistrate.
The Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial PLUS Membership of £310 includes unlimited access to more than twenty-five lessons which tackle a number of SMSC, Citizenship and PSHE themes using the topic of the law for 12 months, as well as the benefits listed above.
More information
How does it work?
Schools will be given access to resources, including a specially written criminal case, to help teams prepare legal arguments. After preparation, your team will take part in a local heat and go head-to-head with other schools to prosecute and defend the case. The winners may then compete in a regional heat with a new case.
What do I need to do?
Our Mock Trial Competitions are designed to be accessible for everyone – you do not need any expertise in the law. Once your school has applied and paid the entrance fee, you will be given all the guidance you need to run the competition in your school.