RESIDENTS in Hampshire are being invited to Winchester Crown Court to see inside prison cells and even take part in a mock trial.

The court will open its doors on Saturday, March 18 to allow residents to take part in a unique experience where they can learn all about the criminal justice system.

The day is free and aimed at school and college leavers who are interested in exploring a career in criminal justice.

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Visitors will have a chance to:

  • Visit the court cells
  • Be involved in a mock trial – and decide the verdict
  • Meet those working in the criminal justice system; real Judges, barristers, solicitors and police officers
  • Learn about career opportunities
  • Meet the police wellbeing dogs
  • Find out how the criminal justice system worked during the pandemic

Judge Angela Morris said: “Open day events are a tremendous way to introduce the community to the court and provide them with some understanding of the work which goes on inside and outside the courtroom.

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“A crown court open day plays an important role in bridging the gap between those organisations who operate within the justice system and the community they serve.

"The primary purpose of the forthcoming open day is to allow members of the public the opportunity to observe the various functions of the crown court in action and to engage with the organisations involved in the justice system so as to better understand the role each plays within it and, hopefully, to remove some of the myths and misconceptions that may still prevail.

“Diversity and inclusion is an important part of what a modern justice system should look like, which is why these principles are at the heart of this open day event.

Police and crime commissioner Donna Jones added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people and the wider community to get first-hand “experience of how the court system works and meet professionals who work in the criminal justice system.

“Visitors will be able to see courtrooms, and cells, witness how trials actually work, take part in a mock trial and get advice on future careers."