THE University of Bradford takes centre stage with a series of live-streamed mock trials.

The competition is a collaboration between the University of Bradford and local law firm Proctor & Hobbs, with the winner receiving a smart car.

The trials are happening in the university’s state of the art mock court room, Lady Hale court, which was named after and opened by the then President of the UK Supreme Court in 2020.

Students will be competing for the chance to win a smart car sponsored by Proctor & Hobbs and the trials will be streamed on their Youtube page.

This is the latest effort by the School of Law to provide practical and robust academic learning for their students by collaborating with local organisations.

Aneesa Ehsan, who graduated in law from the University in 2014 and is a founding partner of Proctor & Hobbs, said the firm was keen to be giving something back to the community. 

She said: “We’re really excited about this competition.

“We think it will give students the chance to experience what it’s like to have to advocate on behalf of a client in a realistic setting, to have to do research and present arguments in court as an advocate.

“It will also boost their confidence and we hope it will also show people from around the country what Bradford has to offer.”

The School of Law’s curriculum was completely revised in 2020, embedding practical skills and career training at all levels to ensure that students received a solid foundation and academic understanding.

Professor Engobo Emeseh, Head of School, said: “These are exciting times here at the School of Law and we are proud of the excellent learning experience and opportunities we are able to provide our students.

“The School is committed to nurturing ambition and excellence in our students and we are excited to work with local firms and organisations to provide students with an all rounded experience.”

It is hoped that this will become an annual event.

Lecturer and solicitor Tuiya Tembo said: Our students already engage in real cases through our law clinic, offering advice to members of the public on a variety of issues. 

“This competition, which mimics reality, is a wonderful opportunity for our students to gain experience in a courtroom setting and I think it will also show the public the calibre of students we have.”