Court is Back in Session: Mock Trial 2025 Returns.
6 October 2025 - Sixth Form
Last week, our Fisher Library was transformed into a courtroom for the fifth annual Wycombe Abbey mock trial. Pupils gathered to witness a high-stakes legal showdown, with Mati (LVI) in the dock, standing trial for an alleged arson offence.
Jurors, comprising the audience, listened intently as the Prosecution outlined its case. Central to their argument was a personal rivalry between the defendant, Mati, and the victim, Isla (also LVI), which they claimed provided a clear motive for the crime. The Prosecution presented further evidence to bolster their case: ominous links between Mati and the purchase of petroleum, as well as footprints matching hers found near the scene, specifically, along the southern perimeter wall of the school grounds.
However, despite the compelling narrative put forward, the Defence successfully cast doubt over the strength of the evidence. Jurors ultimately found the case too circumstantial, with particular concern over the lack of clear forensic evidence directly tying Mati to the scene. In a dramatic conclusion, the jury voted to acquit her by a margin of 35–14.
Reflecting on the event, Mr FitzGerald commented, ‘The mock trials are designed to promote public speaking, the systematic presentation of an argument, and agility under pressure. Everyone performed extremely well.’
The next mock trial is scheduled for January and if this term’s case is anything to go by, it promises to be just as gripping.
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