2026 Minds Underground™ Law Essay Competition

The Minds Underground™ Law Essay Competition invites students in Year 12 (though we also welcome ambitious younger applicants and Year 13 re-applicants) to engage in critical debate and explore foundational questions about justice, law, and society. This competition gives aspiring lawyers the opportunity to practise university-level research, refine argumentative and writing skills, and prepare for Law admissions interviews.
Entrants must choose one question to answer.

The 2026 Minds Underground Law Essay Competition questions are now live. Submit by 3 April 2026!

View Competition Guidelines

Submission Form

2026 Law Essay Competition Questions

01.

Should international law override national sovereignty?

02.

Can justice exist without equality?

03.

Why do we not let judges decide cases based on what they think is fair?


H2: Tips for Writing Your Essay

In theoretical discussions, there are rarely “right” answers - but strong arguments matter.

  • Take a clear stance and defend your opinion logically and coherently.

  • Recognise counter-arguments and address their strengths before explaining why your position holds.

  • Support your reasoning with examples from legal systems, moral philosophy, or real-world cases where relevant.

At university level, law tutors value clear reasoning above all. When you justify your view carefully, it shows you’re thinking like a lawyer.

Law Summer School

Are you in Year 11/12 & Thinking of Pursuing Law at Degree Level/ Oxbridge?

We offer a range of exciting opportunities for students aspiring to a degree in Law at a leading university:

  • Research Projects in exciting current fields with subject experts

  • Weekly Law Club: An opportunity for students to gain exposure to key areas of law, discuss the latest legal developments and issues, under the tutelage of members of our Oxbridge-educated Law team

  • Law Summer School for university/ Oxbridge applicants

  • Long-term Oxbridge Law & LNAT mentoring: Boosting knowledge beyond the curriculum, preparing for personal statement, test and interviews - visit our on-curriculum site, U2 Tuition for more information: https://www.u2tuition.com/law-school-applications

  • Interested in a Law Competition Mentor? Looking for specialist support researching & writing? Our Oxbridge-educated masterminds are here to help! Sessions from £75/h + VAT. Enquire here

Past Questions

01.

How would you reform the House of Lords?

02.

Is justice a pre-condition of law?

03.

What is the rule of law and how has it been breached in Hong Kong?


N.B. You may be interested in undertaking one of MU’s online law masterclasses with our Law experts to give you ideas and help direct your research. Check out the examples below!