Law Society Mock Trial – Round 2 Update

The Santa Sabina College Mock Trial team proudly competed in Round 2 of the NSW Law Society Mock Trial Competition, taking on Rosebank College in a challenging criminal law matter under the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).

This round centred on a charge of damaging property in company, requiring our team to apply their knowledge of criminal procedure, evidentiary rules and courtroom advocacy. Acting for the defence, our students demonstrated impressive legal reasoning, teamwork and confidence under pressure. Our Round 2 team included Barristers Mia Bek and Abigail Dawson, Instructing Solicitor Stephanie Ghabar, Court Officer Rebecca Sarlas and our Witnesses Eliza Thistlewayte and Ruby Dib.

Throughout the trial, the defence team worked strategically to challenge the prosecution’s case presented by Rosebank College in front of Magistrate Greg Morahan, testing the reliability of witness testimony and raising reasonable doubt regarding the alleged property damage. The matter required students to think critically about mens rea, joint criminal enterprise and the standard of proof in criminal proceedings. Ultimately, the Santa Sabina team was able to defend the charges against their client, resulting in a solid trial win.

This round not only strengthened students’ advocacy skills but also deepened their understanding of how the criminal justice system operates in practice. Ably led by staff members Shirley Chan and Vikki Cummins, the professionalism and preparation shown by all team members reflect the strong legal culture developing within our College Mock Trial team.

We congratulate the team on their dedication and look forward to the next round of competition.

Richard Crittenden
Acting Head of Department – HSIE