By Thiago Barata Reis, Year 12
On Thursdays from 12:40 to 13:20, the law club takes place in GB 203. Although it was first created by Martina Ravano and India Tamari, two year 13 students, it is now led by Gaia Zili and Perla Lepage from Year 12. Both students are passionate about channeling the knowledge of the law in a fun and interactive environment. The LGB Express interviewed Gaia and Perla to find out more about the day-to-day work of the law club.
What does a normal day in law 101 look like?
Every week we prepare a presentation on a famous trial or case. We present it to the group, often with real-life footage, and discuss it as we go along (asking questions to participants to stimulate the discussion).We also talk about what could have happened differently in the trial, what the people involved in the trial deserve and why, and finally discuss prepared debate questions. Lastly, we plan what we want to do next week. Each participant is always included and encouraged to take part in the discussion and debates.
What are some valuable skills anyone can learn by joining the law club
Some skills that anyone can learn from the law club include leadership, presenting and public speaking, collaboration and teamwork, and debating and argumentation. Participants also become more cultured about real-world court trials.”
Do you do mock trials in the law club? If so, what do they look like and what constitutes them?
At the start of the year, we thought of doing mock trials, but then we decided to postpone it as many did not know how they worked. So instead, for the past term, we have been presenting and discussing various mock trials that have shaped our legal system as we know it today. We would present these mock trials and then have prepared discussions and debate points to talk about. We are now starting our first mock trial, the O.J Simpson trial. We have distributed the roles, and this week we will look at what each person needs to do and where we go from thereon.
What are some famous trial cases you have learned about in the law club so far?
As of now, we have presented the Bill Cosby case, the O.J. Simpson trial, the Lindbergh Kidnapping, the Menendez Trial, Gypsy Rose, and the Gabby Petito case.
Around how many people come every week? What years are they in?
Around 10 people participate every week. The participants are in years 11, 12, and 13.
Do participants in the law club learn about debating and how to strengthen arguments?
Yes, they do! We teach them about the structure of a trial and about closing and opening statements to prepare them for the upcoming mock trial.”
Do you have a message for readers thinking about joining the club?
If you want to find out more we post everything on our Instagram, @law101_lgb. It’s always fun to debate and discuss the interesting cases we present so feel more than welcome to come and join along!
From this interview, it is clear that the law club is a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills and pursue your passion to learn more about the law. However, it goes beyond the study of legal procedures, as topics such as structuring your arguments, public speaking, and social injustice are also featured. The friendly environment welcomes everyone who wants to find out more. With the mock trials starting soon, now is the perfect time to join the law club. So remember, if you want to join, head to GB 203 from 12:40 to 13:20, and don’t hesitate to bring your lunch! For more information contact the leaders: gaia.braat@ecolint.ch or perla.lepage@ecolint.ch
