Mock trial at Harrow Crown Court

Alumna Her Honour Judge Dafna Spiro invited a group of Year 10 students to take part in a mock trial at Harrow Crown Court this month.

The girls were allocated roles: Prosecution Counsel, Defence Counsel, Defendant, Victim, Witnesses, Court Usher, Court Clerk and Jury. The first trial of the afternoon, however, proved to be the commute, with Overground trains cancelled on one of the hottest days of the year. Anna and Chloe write about the rest of their day.

“After a very hot and sticky journey via tube, we clambered out of the station, anticipating an equally heated discussion in the courtroom – and we weren’t disappointed. Upon our arrival at the Crown Court, each student was checked by security before entering, in the fashion of airport security. And just to make sure we wouldn’t poison anyone, we were asked to take a sip of our waters as well. When we entered the courtroom, we took up our roles, with the witnesses and defendant separated from the rest of us in the room. Joined with professional lawyers, we started the hearing and mock trial. The hearing was largely based on a story of assault on a teenage girl, and the possession of a bladed weapon. We learnt a great deal about the world of law, and how not every case turns out as expected. It was an incredible learning experience and are very grateful to Her Honour Judge Spiro for providing the opportunity. We are hopeful the day will help encourage many more female students to take up law, which still remains a male-dominated profession.”