TY Law Ed.

As part of our Transition Year curriculum, students recently participated in the Law Ed and Mock Trial Programme, an engaging and educational initiative designed to introduce young people to the Irish legal system and the realities of criminal law. Throughout the event, students explored a wide range of legal topics including: Sending Explicit Images: Understanding the serious legal consequences, particularly around child pornography laws. Pornography and the Law: Clarifying what is legal and illegal under Irish legislation. Age of Consent: Discussing the legal age for sexual activity and the importance of informed, mutual consent. Consent and Sexual Offences: Defining consent, when it can be given, and exploring various sexual offences under Irish law. Homicide: Breaking down the differences between murder, manslaughter, and other related offences. Self-Defence: Examining when and how self-defence is legally justified. Sentencing Procedures: Comparing how juveniles and adults are sentenced in Ireland. Social Media Awareness: Reviewing platform terms and conditions and how online behaviour can have legal consequences. The programme culminated in a Mock Trial, where students took on roles such as barristers, solicitors, judges, and witnesses, gaining hands-on experience in courtroom procedures and legal argumentation. Each participant received a Certificate of Achievement, recognising their engagement and understanding of key legal concepts that are increasingly relevant in today’s society. This event not only educated students about the law but also empowered them to make informed decisions and understand their rights and responsibilities.