Mock law courts – practice makes perfect
Learning the theory of a subject is one thing, but applying that theory and performing in a life-like scenario is invaluable. At CU campuses in Coventry, Scarborough and London, students take part in mock law courts, where they are required to work together in legal teams to successfully debate a whole host of relevant issues.
We’ve asked CU Law tutor, Yakesh Tanna, about why mock law courts are the best way for students to learn.
Who participates in the mock law court?
Students will make up the legal teams and department staff will make up a judges panel. There are many staff members in the department who are practising barristers or in other legal professions and so the experience is very real. We also ask wider staff members to come and observe if possible so students can get a feel for what it is like to perform in front of an audience, as courts often have a public gallery.
How do mock law courts benefit students studying law?
Mock law courts are a vital way for students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice. Mock law courts outline the processes and etiquettes they will need to learn if they want to go on and successfully practice law. Also, these sessions provide a great opportunity to build the students’ confidence, improve their public speaking and project management skills, as well as promoting good team work.
What sort of debates takes place?
We choose as wide a variety of topics as possible, including abortion and assisted dying laws. These topics are purposefully emotionally and ethically challenging so that the students learn to put aside their personal views and argue for the side they have been given. This is a very important lesson in maintaining professionalism.
What feedback is available to the students on their performance?
Each student will receive feedback from their tutor directly but there is also an opportunity for other staff members who are assisting in the mock law court to offer constructive criticism as well. Also, students are invited to offer feedback on their own performance and the performances of their classmates, so long as it is constructive. Peer-to-peer feedback is useful as students often value the opinions of their classmates highly.
Why study Law at CU?
Our academic and professional courses are an excellent avenue into the law profession whatever your circumstances or previous education. The courses are taught by industry professionals. Flexible and part-time study is available.
Interested in law? CU offers Law and Practice and Business and Law at CU Coventry, CU Scarborough and CU London.