Form 4 Legal Studies students brought the courtroom to life this week as they took part in two Mock Trials — a constitutionality reference and a criminal appeal — marking the culmination of their Legal Studies module.
Throughout the year, students studied both Criminal Law and Constitutional Law and the Mock Trials provided an opportunity to apply their legal knowledge to realistic legal practice and courtroom procedure. Addressing the Supreme Court, consisting of Mr. Wallace, Ms. Malcolm and Mr. Shaw, students acted as barristers, with one member of each pair leading the case as senior counsel.
In the constitutionality reference, Robin and Holly represented the State, while Anni and Eve appeared on behalf of the Supreme Court. The case centered on an interview given by the Minister for Justice, with counsel for the State arguing in favour of a proposed law. Counsel for the Supreme Court were tasked with challenging the proposed legislation and rebutting the arguments advanced by the State.
The second case, a Criminal Appeal, saw Rebecca and Carla act as the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General, both personally appearing before the Court. Representing the Accused, Judith and Chidimma resisted the appeal. Based on real events surrounding a road traffic collision, the case explored a gap in the law which the State sought to address.
In both cases, the State was granted its reliefs following detailed submissions and robust exchanges between counsel and the Court.
Beyond the legal arguments themselves, the Mock Trials provided students with invaluable experience in persuasive advocacy, public speaking, advance preparation and counter-argument — skills that will serve them well in any future career path.
