Mock Trials

The Mock Trial Competitions are our longest-running active learning experiences. Since 1991, we’ve provided unparalleled exposure to the judicial system, its venues and access to senior legal professionals.

We’ve been supplying our youngest citizens with specially written cases (plus the wigs and gowns) so they can try the law against their peers in courthouses around the UK.

Magistrates' Court Mock Trial

The Magistrates' Court Mock Trial competition is for 12-14 year olds from non-fee paying schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Find out more including entry dates and the location of your nearest heat.

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Bar Mock Trial

This is open to 15-18 year olds from non-fee paying schools in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Find out more about the Bar Mock Trial competition including entry dates and the location of your nearest heat.

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Independent Schools Mock Trial

The Independent Schools Mock Trial competition replicates the Bar Mock Trial competition with 15-18 year olds, however it is for fee-paying schools only. We coordinate regional heats based on school interest. See if we’re running an event in your area or register your interest today.

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The impact it has created

This year, there are 71 heats, 497 schools taking part, 7,695 students participating, and 1,471 legal professionals volunteering.

Society is coming together to educate the pupils on law and the judicial system. It is truly making a difference. Students notice the impact and value they are receiving by participating in the mock trial events.

“It is an amazing opportunity even if you are not interested in a law career and it is a lot of fun. It is also great to put on CVs to demonstrate you have a wider understanding of the law.”

Student, 14, The Holt School, (Reading, 2018)

Suggested Next Steps:

Are you a lawyer or magistrate interested in getting involved with mock trials?
See our list of programmes to see other ways you can engage and learn about citizenship.
Read about the importance of citizenship education.

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