Year 11 Legal Studies

Melbourne Courts

Last week Year 11 Legal Studies students went on an excursion to the Supreme Court and County Court in Melbourne.  This was to help them understand the structure of the court and see what happens in a courtroom.

It was a long day as we left Shepparton at 6.15am and didn't get back until 5.30pm.  There were two guides to show our group around the Supreme Court and explain things to us. 

Students met a Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Rita Zammit, who was very inspirational as she explained her career path to becoming a Justice and what she likes most about her job.  Students even got to wear her robes and wig that she wears in court! 

Students were also able to have a look around the Parliamentary Library in a really old building, built in the 1850’s. 

Following this our group was able to observe the proceedings in a murder trial.  This was really interesting.  It was really good for students to see how witnesses give evidence and how solicitors and judges control the courtroom.  It’s nothing like you see on television!

During our lunch break we were able to do a bit of shopping at Melbourne Central which was a bonus.

In the afternoon, students went to the

County court.  At the County Court they were able to speak to a Judge and ask him questions.  They then sat in on a trial he was presiding over. 

It was a really interesting trial as the defendant was representing himself and didn’t have a solicitor. This is a really great experience for students doing Legal Studies.

Zarina Fleming

Legal Studies