The competition provides an opportunity for young people to speak inside a courtroom, displaying their confidence, communication skills and creativity. The Bar’s Charity of the Year, Marie Curie Northern Ireland, will collaborate in the competition co-ordination with all funds raised going directly to the charity.

Finalists will have the opportunity to stand in the Royal Courts of Justice and present their speech in a real courtroom to an adjudication panel, featuring a sitting member of the judiciary, a senior barrister, and a junior barrister.

Laura King BL, chair of the charity committee said: “The Charity Committee are delighted to launch this competition, giving young people the opportunity to develop their confidence, creativity and communication skills in the inspiring setting of the Royal Courts of Justice.

“This initiative is not only about encouraging the next generation to find and use their voice, but also about supporting an important cause through our 2026 Charity of the Year, Marie Curie. We hope this will become a much-anticipated annual event and look forward to being inspired by what the students have to say.

“The Charity Committee would like to emphasise that there will be a very welcoming atmosphere with encouraging feedback for all participants.”

The deadline for entries is 6pm 16 October 2026. For more information and how to enter your school or child, please see the News and Events section of the Bar of Northern Ireland website.