Judge Shadowing Scheme

About the Programme:

The UCL Laws Judge Shadowing Programme offers an opportunity for students to gain invaluable insight into the judiciary, court procedures, and the practical aspects of legal cases. Participants will have the chance to accompany a judge, observing real-life courtroom scenarios, and engaging in discussions with the judge about the hearing.

The scheme’s objective is to support UCL Laws students, particularly those who may not have had prior access to legal practice or relevant work experience.

This year students will primarily be placed at Snaresbrook Crown Court and Wood Green Crown Court where students will be able to observe criminal hearings and discuss with crown court judges. 


Why Participate?

  • Direct Exposure: Experience first-hand the workings of the judiciary and gain exposure to some of the nuances of court trials and procedures. This direct exposure will allow you to see the law in action, beyond the textbooks and classroom setting.

  • Interactive learning: You will have the opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions with judges, ask questions, and gain deeper insights into the cases you observe. The programme will encourage active engagement and interaction, allowing students to develop critical thinking and enhance their legal acumen with experienced judges.

Who Can Apply?

All UCL Laws students are eligible to apply however priority will be given to students who meet the Access UCL Criteria on the LLB and those who are in receipt of needs-based scholarships on the LLM.


Time Commitment:

The time commitment is dependent on the particular judge and opportunity. Shadowing opportunities can range from 1 day up to 3 full days.  Students will have an opportunity to indicate both their availability and their preferences on the application form. While we will do our best to accommodate those requests and match you with an appropriate opportunity, we may not always be able to do so.

Please note that the nature of hearings and live cases can be volatile and dates and judicial availability can subject to change. If and when a judge communicates any changes to us, we will aim to notify you as soon as possible and make arrangements for an alternative date where possible.

 Students will be placed at Wood Green Crown Court and shadowing will take place on the following dates:

  • Tuesday 18th March 
  • Tuesday 25th March 

Subject to availability, students can attend up to 3 sessions over the course of the two weeks. 

Students should generally expect to arrive at the court by 9:30am on the day of your shadowing and can expect to finish by 5pm though this may be earlier or later subject to the nature of the cases being heard on the day. If you are only able to attend for part of the day, please let us know in your application form. 

More sessions may become available at a later date. If you are unable to attend any of the above sessions but still would like to be considered for a judge shadowing opportunity, please complete the application and indicate this on the form. 

Deadlines:

Applications for this opportunity are closed. 

 For further information about the scheme, please read theLink Judge Shadowing Scheme Guidance for Students.