Every day, the law affects the choices we make, the rights we enjoy, and the responsibilities we share. Yet for many young people, the legal system can seem distant, complex, and difficult to understand.
For this reason, we developed our schools programme, 'Let's look at the law', to help students better understand the law, the courts and their role in a democratic society.
Watch a short introduction to the programme by our Chief Executive Officer Angela Denning.
Who's who In the courtroom?
Learning Outcomes: Students will understand the roles of the various people involved in a court case and the various types of courtrooms - with a particular focus on the criminal courtroom.
What is the law?
Learning Outcomes: Students will develop an understanding of what the law is, why societies create laws, and how laws help to protect our rights.
Where do laws come from?
Learning Outcomes: Students will gain an understanding of the sources of our laws.
Understanding Irish and international courts
Learning Outcomes:
- Students will understand the difference between a criminal matter and a civil matter.
- Students will recognise the structure of the court system.
- Students will identify which court is likely to hear different types of cases.
Discrimination
Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding of the main grounds of discrimination under Irish law.
- How Irish equality law protects individuals.
- Understanding how European law and human rights protections complement Irish protections.
A mock trial in action
How to run a mock trial
A complete mock trial
