MiniTrials is a free initiative – from Scottish Lawyers – to help schools find out more about the Scottish legal system
How it works
“MiniTrials” are simulated court cases designed to be conducted by secondary schools in the main – within roughly two double periods – or as tailored to suit the class.
Trial papers exist to allow primary schools to get involved too.
Students take part in a reconstruction of a criminal or civil trial. They convene the court, hear the evidence and return their own verdict – with the help of lawyer volunteers. There are roles for everyone and we recommend a minimum of 10 participants per class. All the trials are designed to take place in front a jury. This is to include as many students as possible into the MiniTrial.
Students will –
- Become familiar with the role of a criminal trial court.
- Be introduced to court procedure and the function of the jury.
- Develop an appreciation for the roles of various people who work in the courtroom.
- Practice communication and critical thinking skills as they prepare and present their case.
Ideally recommended for year groups S4 – S6
We provide you with materials or you can download these from our website
We then connect you with a legal volunteer for an initial information session
All the trials take place in front of a jury to include as many students as possible
We usually recommend a double period for each MiniTrial and information session
There are roles for everyone – we’d recommend a minimum of 10 participants per class
In-School MiniTrial
MiniTrials are quite simple to run – and they do not involve lengthy preparation. The trials can be exciting and are conducted seriously along the lines of real trials. The aim is to improve understanding and discussion about our legal system.
Ideally recommended for year groups S4-S6.
Schools generally get in contact via the Contact section of this website. We’ll then identify a suitable legal volunteer and then connect them with the particular school. The legal volunteer will join you for an initial information session. They will then return to act at the judge and adjudicate the MiniTrial itself.
The MiniTrial usually fits well within the Modern Studies subject. We usually recommend a double period for each MiniTrial and information session. We also recommend at least one information session but further sessions can be arranged directly with your legal volunteer if you feel that would benefit your students.
We provide you with materials to run the MiniTrial or you can download these via the Resources section of this website.
Inter-Schools MiniTrial
The Inter-Schools MiniTrials events can take place within your local Sheriff Court.
Such events usually take place once per annum.
We suggest a minimum of two schools taking part – one to represent the Defence and one to act for the Prosecution. We recommend an average of 15 students per school.