Justice must not only be done,
it must be seen to be done.
The court is a public forum. It is open to all (except in some special circumstances) to attend, observe, learn and understand our justice system at work.
However, it is intimidating. Why are there security guards at the door? Do I have to turn my phone off? What is that big table in the middle? Should I take my hat off in the courtroom? Am I even supposed to be here? What are the rules?
Answering these questions is the reason Merri Legal has a community legal education program. Designed for the public and for legal studies students, social workers, chaplains and others who help those engaged in the justice system, the Court Experience Session aims to provide a guided court experience that will inform and teach about the court process.
Starting with a discussion on the layout of the courtroom, court process is explained in some detail ahead of a visit to the court itself. This is an observation of real cases where anything can (and often does) happen. The session concludes with an explanation of what happened during the court visit and a brief question and answer time.
To arrange a Court Experience Session, please complete the form below or call Merri Legal on 0488 738 329.
“I recently participated in an education session run by Merri Legal explaining the court procedures. We visited the Warrnambool Court and Christian went through the procedures and layout and then debriefed us after our visit. Christian’s knowledge of the court system and his ability to explain what is happening in language that is accessible to a layperson was fantastic. If you have to engage with the court system in any way, I would highly recommend you contact Merri Legal and participate in a Court Education Session.”
– Don Stewart, Warrnambool