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How to volunteer

Each year the Law Society of NSW co-ordinates the Inter-School Mock Trial Competition, which engages students from across the state and the ACT with the law.

The Competition began in NSW with only 28 secondary schools participating and it has since grown to include over 250. In 2011 we have 198 schools taking part in the ten round competition, culminating in a December Grand Final.

Why get involved?

Thanks to the help of the many lawyers who volunteer their time, students are able to gain a better understanding of the legal system and develop a greater sense of justice.

It is obvious through communication with the teachers and school coordinators that the value of the Competition does not rest on the Grand Final or medal ceremony. The students gain the most rewarding experiences through the process of working with lawyers, preparing for the Mock Trial, creating a court room environment and rising to the challenge of presenting a case.

Calling on skills such as lateral thinking, research and analysis, strong communication and improvisation, students are developing into mature community members. These skills are also transferable to other real-life situations, making Mock Trial a key example of life long learning.

Legal professionals combining their knowledge of the law with the skills of listening, compassion and explanation allow students to go beyond the formal Legal Studies curriculum, putting a human face on lawyers and raising awareness and appreciation of the legal process.

Getting involved in the Competition is also a great way for lawyers to meet and become involved with their community while providing great support to a program that can only succeed with the involvement of the profession.

Magistrates, Scriptwriters and Coaches

There are several ways to get involved in the Mock Trial Competition. You can volunteer as a Magistrate, Scriptwriter or Coach.

To get a better idea of rules and expectations click on the links below and read the Competition Manual.

Magistrate's Quick Reference Guide - Coming soon

Scriptwriter - Comming soon

Coach - Coming soon

How to register

To register your interest:

1. Complete a NSW Government Working with Children Check volunteer/student declaration form
2. Return your completed form to the Law Society's Community Events Co-ordinator (see details on right).