On arrival the students were welcomed with an icebreaker then Dr Bukola Faturoti, one of the mentors on the day, provided the students with some insights to his journey in the legal industry, life at the University of Hertfordshire and also provided some top tips for the students. The students then were split into two teams, defence and prosecution and worked with the Senior Prosecutors to prepare for their court case in the afternoon.
In the afternoon, things got a bit more serious as the students relocated to the mock courtroom and proceedings officially kicked off. They were joined by Senior Crown Prosecutors Julie Okoh, Karen Renshall, Marie Olo and team, who mentored them through the process, helping them prosecute and defend the client in the dock. The students got the full courtroom experience, from questioning and interviewing witnesses to delivering their own closing statements.
The judge eventually delivered the final judgement and concluded that the prosecution team won the case, which delighted the students on the prosecution team!
The students enjoyed the interactive day and also had the opportunity to pose for pictures wearing a black gown and court wig, the traditional horsehair headpiece and gowns worn in courts by Barristers.
What students thought about the experience
“It helped me develop new professional relationships and decide law is a career I’d like to pursue. Being a Barrister specifically, as the mock trial was very engaging.” Zidan
“It has enabled me to enhance my debating, teamwork and communication skills. It helped me get in touch with like minded adults and teens. It was an opportunity for me to further explore the path of law as a career.” Chinenye
“It has allowed me an insight into some of the processes Barristers go through and what a case in court looks like, which was a completely new experience.” Rickael
