Live Advocacy Challenge
Plea in
Mitigation Challenge
Step into the shoes of a criminal advocate, learn how to deliver a plea in mitigation, and have the chance to perform it live at the National Pupillage Fair in London.
Register via TargetJobs Free to participate
About the challenge
What it is
A focused, practical challenge where you prepare and deliver a concise plea in mitigation — the kind of oral submission made by a criminal barrister arguing for their client's release or a reduced sentence. You'll get coaching on structure, persuasion and delivery, plus clear pointers you can take straight into interviews and pupillage assessments.
The format
How it works
Receive your case bundle
You'll receive a short bundle in advance to prepare your plea — no prior knowledge of criminal law required.
Live online workshop — 21 October
Criminal barrister John Dove will lead a plea in mitigation session, sharing group guidance and tips from the Bar. Everyone also gets to practise their plea in small peer groups — a chance to try it out before the live event in a supportive space.
On-stage final at the NPF — 21 November
Six participants are selected at random to perform their plea on stage at the National Pupillage Fair. Each receives live, individual feedback from John Dove in front of an audience of their peers — the real thing, in a real venue.
Eligibility
Who it's for
Particularly suited to those preparing for pupillage applications and interviews — at any stage of their journey.
Why take part
What you'll get out of it
Real advocacy experience
Build confidence with time-pressured, realistic courtroom advocacy — the kind of thing chambers actually want to see.
Actionable feedback from the Bar
Get direct, honest coaching from a practising criminal barrister — not generic presentation tips.
A great addition to your CV
Competing at a live national event is exactly the kind of experience that stands out in pupillage applications.
Ready to take part?
Register now — it's free
Spaces are limited. Register through TargetJobs to secure your place at the National Pupillage Fair 2025.
Register via TargetJobs →Event details and schedule are provided by TargetJobs — please check their page for the latest information.
Questions? [email protected]
