While some law students may have to wait until after graduation to get a sense of what it is really like to defend a client in a courtroom before a judge and jury, one university has created a virtual experience offering practical experiences into this side of the law. 

As part of its Virtual Open Week, the Australian National University (ANU) has created a mock courtroom where current law students play both sides of counsel, the innocent party and the defendant. The virtual experience places the audience – or the potential future law student – as the jury and asks that they deliberate on a verdict. 

“Members of the jury,” associate professor and criminal barrister Anthony Hopkins said to the camera, posing as the presiding judge. He launches into a real-world disclaimer and explanation of what it means to be part of the jury and to decide on a case: “You’ve come here today to take on a very important role on behalf of the community.”

The mock trial featuring four law students – Sophie Elder-Harris, Andrew Ray, Callum Wilson and Charlotte Michalowski – is part of its evidence course, run by Dr Hopkins, which places the student “behind the wheel” to allow them to make mistakes and learn from them in a university-designed room before moving onto the real thing. 

“This mock trial is a must-watch for aspiring lawyers, providing authentic tastes of open and closing statements, witness examinations, grounds for objection and more,” ANU said. “Separate fact from fiction and discover why ANU law students are internationally renowned for their mooting skills. Remember you’ll play the role of our virtual jury, so listen carefully to both sides and let us know your verdict.”

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Post-video, Dr Hopkins again addresses the camera, informing the watching students that the course provides a practicable process of proof best learnt in experience. 

“One of the key things about ANU is that we understand that law is best learnt in action. So, it’s important that in our teaching and in the opportunities we give students, there is a chance for students to apply their knowledge in simulated or real-world settings,” he said.