Mock Trial showcases student talent and professional excellence

The Law School recently hosted a highly successful Mock Crown Court Trial, bringing together students, academic colleagues, alumni judges and members of the legal profession for an immersive and professionally delivered courtroom experience. The event was observed by University colleagues , including Trustees and external stakeholders from the legal sector. Professor Adolfo Paolini, Dean of the School of Law, was also delighted to welcome a group of sixth-form students from John Colet School, Wendover, forging stronger links with the Law School outreach activities.

The proceedings, held in the Moot Court and live-streamed to F06 for additional attendees, provided students with a valuable opportunity to apply their legal knowledge in a realistic setting. The case concerned the offence of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm (ABH), allowing students to explore the legal elements of the offence and self-defence in practice. Participants took on roles including counsel, witnesses, usher, clerk and jury members. The event was collaborative, and involved Journalism student, Martha Walton, reporting on the case proceedings. Students demonstrated impressive preparation, advocacy skills, teamwork, and courtroom etiquette throughout.

The trial was supported by distinguished members of the judiciary and practising professionals, including HH Judge Siddique, HH Judge Murch, Charles Hogan, Family Barrister, 3 Paper Buildings and Samuel Wells, Crown Prosecution Service Paralegal. Their involvement ensured authenticity and provided invaluable insight into professional standards and expectations. Notably, all members of the panel were alumni of Buckingham.

The Mock Trial concluded with a successful outcome for the Prosecution, whose case ultimately proved persuasive before the jury. Through clear advocacy, structured examination of witnesses, and a confident closing speech, the Prosecution counsel, Dipanjali Samoo, effectively established their argument and addressed the key issues in dispute. An outstanding performance was also offered by the Defence team, led by first-year LLB students, Henry Brown and Junior Counsel, Ornella Drake. The jury returned a verdict in favour of the prosecution, reflecting the strength of the evidence presented and the professionalism demonstrated throughout the proceedings.

Student feedback from the day

Student feedback highlighted just how valuable the experience was:

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude for this incredible opportunity. I recognise how fortunate we are to be able to take part in experiences such as the mock trial, which go far beyond the classroom and offer invaluable insight into the realities of legal practice.”

“It was a really valuable and enjoyable experience, and I learned a lot from taking part. It was a great opportunity to build confidence and learn skills that I think we don’t often get to practice in a classroom setting. The experience itself was still extremely worthwhile, and everyone involved took it seriously. I’m very grateful to have been given the chance to participate.”

Feedback from Alumni and guests

We were also honoured to receive feedback from our Alumni Judges, mentors and guests, who were highly impressed with the professionalism and ability demonstrated by our students:

“I think it was a very successful day, with a high level of preparation by the three advocates. I am very pleased to see that this event is proving to be popular. It was not available when I was a student and I think it brings huge benefits to those who are able to take part.”

“It was a real treat to hear from the next generation of legal talent – so inspiring and humbling. They are incredibly lucky to have such talented mentors and lecturers and the opportunity to take part in such events!”

Thank you to everyone involved in organising, mentoring, and supporting the event.

Special thanks to the law team: Professor Adolfo Paolini, Julie O’Shea, Charley-Anne Gordon, Dr Jessica Walsh and Nicki Stuchbury. Thanks also to colleagues from the Alumni Office, Journalism, Estates, IT, Security, Catering, Library, and many others. The Mock Trial continues to be a top experiential learning opportunity, bridging academic study with real-world legal practice.

We look forward to building on this success in future events.