MiniTrials diet for students at Edinburgh Academy

S3 pupils were the opportunity to play the roles of prosecutor, defence agent, witnesses and jurors, while Jamie Perriam, Advocate, presided over the proceedings as sheriff.

The MiniTrials initiative aims to promote civic education by guiding pupils through court process to learn about the Scottish legal system.

Mr Perriam said: “It was a pleasure to preside over proceedings and support this MiniTrial.

“The mock trial gave pupils a chance to learn about the Scottish criminal justice process in an interactive environment. The aim is to improve their critical-thinking and public-speaking skills by analysing evidence and presenting a case.

“We hope it will encourage students to consider a career in law and I would encourage other schools to give it a try. Our volunteers would be happy to support MiniTrials across the country.”

Teachers hailed the mock trial as an excellent learning experience.

Academy teacher, Jonathan said: “Jamie Perriam gave our S3 students an amazing experience in what it was like to participate in all aspect of a court case. Our students found the minitrial exceptionally exciting, engrossing and educational.”

Any lawyers or teachers interested in helping to facilitate a mock trial at their local school are encouraged to contact the MiniTrials teams for more information. Guidance and materials are available from the MiniTrials website.