Criminal Mock Trial  

 The Mushroom Murder Case

Our Year 11 Legal Studies students recently stepped into the shoes of barristers, solicitors, witnesses, and an accused as they conducted a mock trial for their unit on Proving Guilt. To deepen their understanding of the burden and standard of proof, elements of murder, courtroom procedures, and our Legal Studies deep hope statement - ‘To Make Right’, students based their scenario on the widely publicised case involving Erin Patterson, who was convicted in relation to the 2023 mushroom poisoning deaths. 

Using publicly reported details of the proceedings, students analysed how prosecutors and defence teams construct arguments, challenge evidence, and respond to judicial rulings. In the courtroom setting, they questioned witnesses, delivered opening and closing statements, and deliberated on a verdict using the standard of proof beyond reasonable doubt. The activity also offered an engaging way to observe how justice (fairness, equality and access) is tested, argued, and ultimately determined, in a court of law.  

A big shout out goes to our judge, Megan Kinzcel and the Year 11 students who formed our jury of 6. 

Sharon Payze 

Year 11 Legal Teacher