Elementary School Civil Mock Trial at Palmerston Public School - PM Group

In collaboration with the Toronto Lawers Association (TLA), OJEN’s Elementary School Civil Mock Trial Program introduces students to the law, their rights, and the various roles in a courtroom, and gives students the opportunity to interact with justice sector volunteers in a positive environment.

Students participate in approximately 10-12 hours of classroom activities designed to develop skills in perspective taking, advocacy, and conflict resolution, and to increase awareness of roles in the courtroom, culminating in a mock trial.  

The mock trial scenario is based on a civil defamation case that arises from the aftermath of the popular children’s story, Hansel and Gretel. In our scenario, the Witch is furious that she has been portrayed as a ghoulish cannibal, and sues Hansel and Gretel for defamation after they posted their version of the story on the Internet.

Below are photos taken of the ECMT at Palmerston Public School in Kevin Finalyson's classroom in April 2012.  

To read a Globe and Mail article about the impact the program had on the volunteers and students at another Toronto school last year click here .

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Junior Counsel for the Plaintiff Make Their Closing Statement 46 weeks 4 days ago	The Jury Deliberates 46 weeks 4 days ago	While the Jury Deliberates, Paul Acts as a Facilitator in Discussing a Negotiation with Both Sides 46 weeks 4 days ago
The Jury Listens, Takes Notes for their Deliberation and Decision 46 weeks 4 days ago	The Court Reporter Takes Notes While the Judge and Court Clerk Listen to the Witness 46 weeks 4 days ago	The Press Takes Notes About the Trial 46 weeks 4 days ago
Junior Counsel for the Defendants Questions a Witness 46 weeks 4 days ago	Court Staff coached by Classroom Teacher Kevin Finlayson 46 weeks 4 days ago	Junior Counsel for the Defendants Coached by Lawyer Volunteer Marty Rabinovitch 46 weeks 4 days ago
Junior Counsel for the Plaintiff Coached by Lawyer Volunteer Maya Krishnaratne 46 weeks 4 days ago	Witnesses are coached by Lawyer Volunteer Paul Saguil 46 weeks 4 days ago