Oxford Magistrates’ Court Hosts High-Calibre Student Advocates in Mock Trial Competition

On Saturday 22nd March, Oxford Magistrates’ Court was filled not with the usual defendants and legal professionals, but with the sound of impassioned argument and carefully constructed cross-examinations from some of Oxfordshire’s brightest young minds. Schools from across the county and slightly beyond gathered to take part in the Oxfordshire heat of the Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial Competition – and what a competition it was.

Organised by the Magistracy and the charity Young Citizens, the event gives 12- to 14-year-olds a chance to step into the shoes of magistrates, legal advisors, prosecutors, witnesses and defendants. Each school prepares both sides of a specially written criminal case, taking turns to prosecute and defend in front of real magistrates in real courtrooms.

The standard on display on Saturday was nothing short of outstanding. From opening statements to cross-examinations, the young participants showed not only a sound grasp of legal process but also impressive confidence, critical thinking and teamwork. Each of the Courthouse's four individual courtrooms was filled with family, teachers and visiting VIPs—we were left in no doubt that many of these students have promising futures in law, public service or wherever their eloquence and passion for justice take them.

For most of the students, this was their first experience of the legal world. But watching them advocate with such skill, composure and integrity, you could be forgiven for thinking they were seasoned professionals. That’s the magic of this competition—it provides a unique, hands-on way to understand how the law shapes our lives and society, in an environment that is both engaging and inspiring.

Young Citizens has been running the Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial Competition for over 25 years, involving more than 4,000 students annually from over 250 schools across the UK. Supported by over 1,200 legal professionals, the programme not only introduces young people to the justice system, but also boosts their confidence, communication and leadership skills. Teachers report time and again how students grow in resilience and self-belief through the experience—and Saturday’s event in Oxford was a powerful testament to that.

Huge thanks must go to the Oxford Magistrates’ Court magistrates and staff, volunteer legal professionals, and of course the brilliant teachers and schools who prepared their students so thoroughly. But most of all, congratulations to every student who took part—you brought the courtroom to life and reminded us all why citizenship education matters.

For more about the Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial Competition, visit www.youngcitizens.org.