Taunton law students win third regional mock trial title

Students from Huish Law School’s EnRICH programme were winners yet again at the South Wales Regional Heats of the Bar Mock Trial Competition <i>(Image: Richard Huish College)</i>
Students from Huish Law School’s EnRICH programme were winners yet again at the South Wales Regional Heats of the Bar Mock Trial Competition (Image: Richard Huish College)
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A team of law students from Taunton has once again claimed victory at a regional mock trial competition.

Students from Huish Law School’s EnRICH programme triumphed at the South Wales Regional Heats of the Bar Mock Trial Competition, held at Cardiff Crown Court on Saturday, November 7.

This marks their third consecutive win in the region and secures them a place in the national finals in March 2027, where they will aim to defend their title.

Rob Durdin, who helped the students prepare after his expertise helped establish Richard Huish College's mooting programme, said: "I could not be prouder of this team.

"Their commitment, resilience and willingness to put in the hard work behind the scenes has been extraordinary.

"Mock trial success is never achieved on the day alone; it is earned through weeks of preparation, practice and collaboration.

"To retain the South Wales title and reach the national finals once again is a testament to every student's dedication and passion for advocacy.

"They represented Huish with distinction and should be immensely proud of what they have achieved."

The students were tasked with presenting both prosecution and defence arguments in a dangerous driving case, R v Reid, and defending a bribery case, R v Kapoor.

Juries agreed with the team’s case in two out of three trials.

Participants played a variety of roles, including barristers, witnesses, court clerks, ushers, and jurors.

Judges praised the students’ conduct and professionalism throughout the competition, with one remarking: "If I could retire today, I would know that the legal profession was in the best possible hands."

The team was also commended for their advocacy, courtroom manner, and case preparation.

The programme is supported by chamber sponsors Albion Chambers in Bristol and 8 New Square Chambers in London, who provide financial backing and mentoring from practising barristers.

Rowena Mudge, course manager for law at Richard Huish College, said: "The support we receive from Albion Chambers and 8 New Square Chambers is absolutely invaluable.

"Their commitment gives our students opportunities that simply cannot be replicated in the classroom, helping them develop the confidence, resilience, communication and advocacy skills that underpin successful legal careers."

Huish Mooting will now prepare for the national finals in March 2027, where they hope to make history by defending their title.

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