YEAR 10

LEGAL STUDIES

AN AUDIENCE WITH JUSTICE SIMON WHELAN

 During law court excursions several weeks ago the Year 10 and 11 Legal Studies classes were given the opportunity to talk with Justice Simon Whelan of the Supreme Court of Appeal. While Justice Whelan provided interesting background information regarding the role and composition of government and the judiciary, it was his answers to students’ questions that drew the greatest response. Students asked thought-provoking questions on topics ranging from experiences as a barrister to views on the effectiveness of the legal system. The Judge’s Associate gave students information regarding careers within the legal profession and the importance of planning/organisation throughout their secondary and tertiary education.

The class then observed a plea hearing for a ‘conspiracy to defraud’ ($20 million from the Transport Authority) case. Other cases included armed robbery, perverting the course of justice and a final Supreme Court case involving murder where students observed the cross-examination of a Purana Taskforce detective.  A later discussion with a County Court judge saw students ask some controversial questions regarding issues including crimes committed while on bail. 

Associate Justice Daly explained her role in criminal case management and preparing documents for cases such as the Commonwealth government’s duty of care toward asylum seekers on Manus Island and the rights of youth offenders sent to Barwon Prison.

A final discussion with Judge Stoccato of the County Court included the importance for students to aim high in regards to their career ambitions. He related his story of being a first generation Australian of Italian descent and the first in his family to go to university.

Next term Legal Studies students will visit Loddon Prison in Castlemaine as part of their study of criminal sanctions. The education program at this medium-security prison offers students the opportunity of interacting and conversing with its prisoners. 

Stephen Croci - Legal Studies teacher