Students from across Niagara came together on May 9th and 10th at the Robert SK Welch Court House to participate in the annual OBA-OJEN Competitive Mock Trials (OOCMT). As a summer law student intern with OJEN, I was honoured to attend this event, watching students from across Niagara showcase their exceptional legal and public speaking skills. I sat amidst an audience of beaming parents, invested teachers and coaches. I was struck by the unwavering dedication and undeniable talent on display. The courtroom hummed with anticipation as the proceedings began. The students stepped into the roles, each embodying their part with a sincerity and flair that was truly remarkable.
This year, students argued a case of R v Lavel, which provided the backdrop for the mock trial proceedings. The facts of this case stemmed from a situation of two neighbours whose disputes would turn lethal, leaving one neighbour dead on the other’s front lawn. The heart of the case was the question of a second-degree murder charge. The Crown contended that the defendant, Mr. Lavel, was responsible for the crime, presenting evidence and witness testimony to support their claims. On the other side, the defence mounted a vigorous justification of self-defence and a diagnosis of PTSD, challenging the Crown’s narrative and raising doubts about the reliability of the evidence presented. Students took on different positions, from Crown and defence counsel to expert and lay witnesses. Some students acted as the accused, while others acted as timekeepers and court clerks.
The most impactful aspect of the Niagara Mock Trials I witnessed was the continuous feedback and learning opportunities provided to the students. Judges and lawyers took the time to pause scenarios and explain different aspects of evidence law and the rules of criminal trial procedure. Judges also engaged students in conversations about the validity of their objections and explained in instances why they were overruling or allowing them. These dialogues forced students to think on their feet and allowed them to truly engage with the proceeding. One thing that rang consistent as rounds one and two had come to a close was the praise from the judges. They commended the students on their critical thinking and public speaking skills demonstrated throughout the trial. The judges recognized that for many students, this was their first or second time engaging with the idea of law and legal practice and encouraged them to continue doing so.
The OBA-OJEN mock trials are run across Ontario and are an invaluable educational tool, offering students a practical understanding of the law and courtroom procedures. Students learn to construct arguments, interpret evidence and think critically. These skills are foundational and will benefit students in any future endeavour, whether they pursue law or other fields. These mock trials are not just a courtroom simulation but a transformative educational experience. They provide a unique opportunity for hands-on learning, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Additionally, they enforce the importance of teamwork, ethics, and professionalism.
Thanks are in order to all the committees across Ontario that help to plan and run these competitions. Your support and dedication ensure that these events run smoothly from start to finish. Without your efforts, this invaluable experience would not be possible.