Court

Our morning in court normally begins with a court clerk explaining the layout of the court and who will participate in the hearing. In consultation with the clerk and the teachers accompanying the students, we will decide on the most appropriate and relevant cases for the students to attend. Barristers, probation and police officers will talk to the students, explaining their roles in the justice system.

Cases involving sentencing are the most impactful; this is when a person’s freedom is at stake and the consequences of wrong choices are very stark. Often there is an opportunity for the judge to find time to talk to the students and answer any questions at the end of a sitting. This is a particularly valuable part of the session and we receive very positive comments from the children and teachers. We are most fortunate in having the support of the Honorary Recorder of Oxford, HHJ Ian Pringle KC, who is one of our trustees.

whatwedo_court

A View From The Honorary Recorder of Oxford, HHJ Ian Pringle KC

“The impact of “Getting Court” has been huge, not just on the schools and pupils who have attended court, but upon the judges in this centre who have had an opportunity to meet with the younger members of society and engage with them on what crime truly is and what the consequences are both for those who are the victims of such crimes and for those who involve themselves in such criminal activity…

It is engaging directly with probably the most important section of our society and is certainly fulfilling the desire of our senior judges that we need to try to de-mystify our courts and our legal system to the public. I thoroughly recommend “Getting Court.”