Magistrates' Court Visit

Recently, we had our first Magistrates’ Court visit of the academic year. This is always a very popular trip, and today was no different. Thirteen Lower Sixth and Fifth Year pupils found the insight into the court, its procedures, roles, and the intricacies of the law fascinating.

We are very lucky to be hosted by sitting magistrates. This means we have the opportunity to visit a courtroom whilst not in session. Here, we learn about who is present in court, why they are there, and where they sit. We then headed to Court 1 to witness the remand cases from the weekend.

Between cases, there was time for reflection and discussion with our magistrate hosts. This enriched the whole experience further. We have at least two more of these visits planned this academic year—hopefully more if the court can fit us in.

It is a brilliant insight into law. Even more importantly, as citizens, it helps us understand how our law works in action.