Students have their day in Court

The Citizenship Foundation, in partnership with the Bar Council of Northern Ireland, held its 24th National Mock Trial Competition at the Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast and 14 pupils from Slemish College took part.
Slemish College Pupils took part in a Mock Trial.Slemish College Pupils took part in a Mock Trial.
Slemish College Pupils took part in a Mock Trial.

Students from across the whole of Northern Ireland took on the roles of barristers and witnesses, with one team prosecuting and the other defending judged by senior members of the Bar and serving judges.

Law teacher Mrs Marguerite O’Donovan said: “The opportunity gave fabulous insight into the workings of a real trial and I am delighted to say our all students were exceptional, showing natural flair.

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“In particular they showed real potential for the courtroom, conceding nothing and offering logical and precise arguments.

“The experience has been invaluable in helping our students explore and develop practical skills that would be essential to careers in the field of law such as that of a Barrister, Court Clerk, Court Usher and Court Reporter.”

Speaking on behalf of the Bar Council Chairman Gerald McAlinden QC said: “The Bar Council is delighted to support the 24th Bar National Mock Trial Competition and each year, our members look forward to welcoming the students to the High Court.”

“We are dedicated to providing young people with an exciting and novel insight into the workings of the Northern Ireland legal system.

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“They learn more about their legal rights and responsibilities through the process and I want to publicly acknowledge the many barristers and judges who volunteer their time each year to work with these young people in bringing the legal system to life.”

Open Nights at Slemish

You can find out more about what Slemish College has to offer at their open nights which are planned for Wednesday, January 27 and Thursday, January 28 from 7.30pm.