Law Day
Three weeks of work, going before two supreme court judges, meeting with three different lawyers, and making a trip to Duncan, boiled down to one final day. One day that was filled with excitement and nerves. We walked into the courthouse, bags in hand and were immediately greeted by a Security guard. Up to the fourth floor, courthouses and interview doors, lining the walls as we walked down the hallway, found out what room our first case was in and then let the Crown team head off to its first case. Ms Cawley, Jessie R. and Logan D. and I made our way through the crowd and found a quiet place to go over our case. We worked for about an hour and twenty-minutes, which seemed like nothing compared to the three weeks of preparation prior. We made our way to the courtroom, and presented our case, it was two against four, Jessie and I against four other lawyers, representing the defense-we won and our client was acquitted of both charges. The amount of fun that we had was incredible. We enjoyed every minute, and I truly believe that our advancement to the semi-finals was made possible by each lawyer and judge that helped us prepare. The feeling of utter joy was incredible and although we did not advance to the Finals, we were happy with where we ended up. On behalf of the whole Shawnigan Lake School Debate Team, I want to personally thank Ms Cawley, Mr. Younie, Judge Bracken, and Judge Wood. This was an incredible trip and gave me a whole different view on lawyers and the British Columbia Court System. Thanks to everyone who made this trip a possibility!
– Johnny B., Junior Debate Captain