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. For many years, it has helped students understand how the legal system affects everyday life.
This updated edition builds on that success with refreshed lesson plans, new videos, improved classroom activities and enhanced mock trial resources.
Watch a short introduction to the programme by our Chief Executive Officer, Angela Denning.
Let's Look at the Law brings together two practical resources: a new manual for teachers and a dedicated mock trial resource pack, providing everything needed to stage a mock trial in the classroom.
Download the Let's look at the law manual .
Download the accompanying mock trial document .
Below is an explanation of each Unit in Let's look at the law, with a link to the accompanying video. You can visit the full playlist of videos on our YouTube channel We will be adding more content over time, so keep an eye on this page.
Queries and requests can be directed to communications@courts.ie.
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
