On Trial And Cross-Examined at RGS

This Saturday, three RGS Worcester teams will be competing in the Regional Round of the Young Citizens Mock Trial Competition at Nottingham High School, in front of professional judges, with the goal of reaching the national final in June.

This competition involves preparing legal arguments towards a specially written criminal case and going head-to-head against other schools to prosecute or defend these cases. This experience has allowed us to develop a knowledge and understanding of the role of law and the justice system within society. Furthermore, we have been lucky to have had a professional lawyer, Nicola Monaghan, provide her expertise during our preparation, as she has helped us to understand the intricacies of the legal system and thereby develop an argument in accordance to the rule of law and the expectations of a criminal trial.

It was amazing to have the opportunity to practise the cases R v. Haynes and R v. Newton in the University of Worcester’s courtroom as it gave us greater exposure to the practical applications of the case, rather than just the theory. It gave us insight into the nature of a courtroom as our clerks and ushers were able to experience what was required for their role, as well as allowing our witnesses to practise withstanding scrutiny and cross-examination.

Ultimately, whatever the outcome on Saturday, this competition has helped us to build our confidence through exposure to the judicial and legal system, its venues and access to legal professionals, as well as providing a fun opportunity for us to develop an understanding and interest in the law. We are very grateful to everyone who has helped us make the most of this amazing opportunity and hope we can do them justice on Saturday.

Lauren Pearse, Upper Sixth
(Prosecution witness, R v Hynes)