The only crown court in Dorset will be opening its doors this weekend to offer an insight into the full workings of the criminal justice system.
Bournemouth Crown Court is holding an open day for residents with opportunities to take part in mock trials and see inside the cells.
All four of the courtrooms which deal with the county's most serious criminal cases during the week will be a hive of activity.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick, who chairs the Dorset Criminal Justice Board, said: “The open day will give everyone a chance to see justice in action and engage will lots of the different agencies and services that are involved in the criminal justice system - so from chatting to a probation officer to watching a mock trial or visiting the court cells or finding out more about a career in the law – the whole day is geared up to be fun, free and informative.
“Days like these help bridge the gap between the organisations that work within the criminal justice system and the community they serve – so please come along and find out more about your local justice system.”
Visitors will be able to be sign up to be on the jury in mock crown court trials, with four scheduled to take place throughout the day.
Police cadets will take on the role of witnesses and defendant in the trial of Draco Malfoy, with a judge and barristers performing their usual roles and responsibilities.
The magistrates’ service will be running a simulated sentencing court, while there will be an open court room with displays of barristers and judicial robes to try on.
The last court room will be hosting a series of presentations, including from Bournemouth Crown Court’s Resident Judge William Mousley KC on the sentencing process and Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Michael Tomlinson, who is the Solicitor General, on appeals.
Various police teams and other agencies are set to put on stalls outside the building.
Judge Mousley KC told the Daily Echo: “We are trying to show people what really goes on, demystify the process and give people a better understanding.
“It is also bringing to the attention of the public the jobs and the work that is available in the justice system. It is intended to be good for anyone from the age of six to 106.
“We are very excited and it is great to be able to do it. This is the first time we have done it on this scale but we know the response in other courts has been extremely positive.”
The event at the court building in Deansleigh Road runs from 10am until 4pm on Saturday, July 1, with doors opening at 9.30am.
There is limited free parking on site, which will be available on a first come, first served basis.
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