Learning about the justice system at St Helens

On the 28th April, 13 Year nine students from De La Salle St Helens competed against other schools in the 2022 Mock Magistrates Competition, which was run by the Magistrates Association and HM Courts and Tribunals Service.  The students had been in training with a local magistrate from September and had to both prosecute and defend a fake case of internet harassment. 

The Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial Competition helps young people understand how the law touches every aspect of their lives, gaining an insight into how the legal justice system works.

Schools were given access to resources, including a specially written criminal case, to help them prepare legal arguments. After preparation, the teams took part in a local heat.  From there they go head-to-head with other schools to prosecute and defend the case. The first round of winners then compete in a regional heat with a new case. Winning teams from regional heats will battle both cases out at a National Final.

For most of our students it is their first experience of the law. There is no better way to introduce them, than in a fun and engaging experience that stays with them for life.

Students who take part are encouraged to think critically, build arguments and boost their confidence. The experience will help students develop a sound knowledge and understanding of the role of law and the justice system, as well as instilling a healthy competitive edge, an awareness of wider careers available and developing their public speaking skills.

On the day, it was one school out of six that went through to the next round.  De La Salle won both trials and performed really well, but they were defeated by another school at the last minute.  This was such a valuable experience and the students have now moved on to recruiting and coaching for next year.