Mock Trial Weekend
3rd-4th November and repeated 1st-2nd December 2012 • University of London Union • Ages 15-18
EVER WANTED TO TAKE THE LAW INTO YOUR OWN HANDS?
The Debate Chamber Mock Trial Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for students aged 15-18 to experience the drama of the courtroom and learn about the practice of criminal law. Over two days, participants will learn about the criminal justice system, the legal profession and court procedure, pick up tips from practioners, and take part in a realistic Crown Court trial.
Teaching will run from 10.30 – 4.30 on each day of the Weekend.
Download a poster to display in your school here.
Programme:
Learning about the law
Students will learn all about the criminal justice system, the courts, the legal process and the law in general. We begin by examining how exactly the criminal legal system operates in this country, focusing on what happens to a person if they are arrested on suspicion of having committed an offence. This investigation takes us from the initial arrest, through the investigation, the day in court, right through to how that person is imprisoned (if convicted) and what level of sentence or punishment they may receive.
Within this, students will get to know the rules of evidence and the elements of offences. They will learn what offences consist of, why people are charged with certain offences and not others and how a barrister goes about trying to prove that an accused person did in fact commit a crime.
Have your day in court
On the second day of the Weekend, students will all get the opportunity to take part in a full Mock Trial, following the rules of the Crown Criminal Court. They will be split into teams and provided with their ‘bundle’ – the various briefing documents a barrister receives in real cases. This will contain statements, police evidence and various other documents they will need to work together and to build their team’s case. The trials take place with the students wearing the full wig and gown, acting for either the prosecution (to try and secure a conviction) or the defence (to try and secure an acquittal).
Put new skills to the test
A major part of this Weekend is providing students with skills of advocacy. Students will learn to create arguments, use evidence to favour their side, question witnesses, speak like a formal barrister, make speeches in court, and manipulate the jury in the hope of securing a victory. Within this, students will learn key public speaking skills, as well as hone their skills of clarity and presentation – vital skills for those hoping to study law at university, but extremely useful skills in their own right.
Questions & Answers
Our tutors, who are graduates of top universities, lawyers and postgraduate/doctoral students are very experienced. Students will have the opportunity over the course of the Weekend to ask them questions about the law, about what studying law at university is like, or about what career prospects are like in the field of law. Our tutors are also happy to recommend further reading for students who wish to find out more about the law upon completing the Weekend.
Feedback from previous mock trial events – read more here.
“It was very interesting as I learnt a great deal of information about law which I did not know. I really enjoyed taking part in the mock trial.”
“I thought the realism of the case was fantastic and was thoroughly interested throughout the two days.”
“Very enjoyable – all aspects covered in the appropriate depth – the fundamentals of the trial were complemented effectively by the techniques used by barristers.”
“Very informative, interesting and, most importantly, fun!”
“I loved it! I really enjoyed both elements of the weekend – the learning of legal terminology and procedure on day one and the experience of the trial process on day two.”
BOOK A PLACE
The fee for the Mock Trial Weekend is £165 per student. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Debate Chamber offers a limited number of full and partial bursaries for students who would otherwise have financial difficulty in attending. To book a place please use the form below. If you have any questions, or you wish to place a group booking, please email info@debatechamber.com or call 0845 519 4827.
If you are applying for a fees bursary please do not fill in the form below, instead please complete the Bursary Application – Student Form.
If you are a teacher interested in holding a Law event at your school please click here.