Community learn about the courts

Magistrates who took part in the event: Mr Herbert JP, Mrs Hensby JP, Mr Ghulam Rasul Shahzad OBE JP, Mrs Honson JP, Mr Blackhurst

Members of the community, organisations, agencies, Magistrates and members of the staff at the Rochdale Magistrates Courts took part in a full day “Mock Trial” and “You be the Judge” event at Castlemere Community Centre on Tweedale Street on Monday (27 September 2010).

The Mock Trial was held in the morning session and members of the community found it very innovative, informative and interactive with explanations of various roles. They also learnt about the Criminal Justice System and the role of the Magistracy and courts.
Local Criminal Justice staff, Magistrates and members of the community took the roles of Prosecution, Defence Counsel, witnesses, Legal Adviser, Defendant. Store Detective, Police Officer, and Usher etc. The case was carefully and specifically written for the Mock Trial and the staff explained each and every role.

In the afternoon session the “You be the Judge” activity took place. Members of the public and the local community had the opportunity to hear anonymous criminal cases and give their verdict- using “Who wants to be Millionaire” style keypads.

It helped the participants to understand the different factors involved when Magistrates sentence offenders. Participants asked questions which were answered by a panel of Magistrates, the Probation Services Manager, Police Community Support Officers and staff of appropriate agencies.

Speaking about the day Ghulam Rasul Shahzad OBE JP, said: “The feedback was very positive, as members of the public had better understanding of the Criminal Justice System, services provided by various services and agencies, role of the Magistracy, how Magistrates pass sentences.

“Wherever appropriate and required, interpreters in Punjabi and Urdu translated the presentations for better understanding for the Asian community including women and older people.

“There were a range of workshops, stalls and presentations from agencies involved in the criminal justice system. Various organisations including Magistrates Courts, Probation Services, Community Payback Scheme, Police Community Support Officers, Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service, Drugs Action Team of the Rochdale Council, NHS, Petrus and various other organisations took part in it.”