Friday, 9 May 20253L Lisa Gao
As members of the Mock Trial Team, we recently had the incredible opportunity to visit the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Court, where we gained a memorable experience. Upon arriving at the court and stepping into the courtroom, we were immediately struck by the fast-paced, structured environment where justice unfolds in real time. Witnessing live legal proceedings provided us with a firsthand look at how the law operates, and the insights we gained were truly fascinating.
From the moment we entered, the courtroom buzzed with activity. We observed defendants entering pleas—some admitting guilt, others contesting charges or pleading for mercy. We saw how magistrates swiftly moved through cases with remarkable efficiency. One case, filed less than a week ago (on April 9th!), was already in process, proving just how dynamic the legal system is. The way lawyers presented arguments, negotiated bail terms, and advocated for their clients was especially gripping. Seeing them in action—sharp and direct in a fast-paced trial—helped us appreciate the skill required in courtroom advocacy.
There were many lessons learned throughout this experience, one of the biggest being that the law doesn’t overlook even the smallest offenses. A late tax form submission or a minor theft (like stealing objects worth less than HKD 50) might seem trivial, but the court treats them seriously—imposing fines and penalties to reinforce accountability. This taught us a powerful lesson: laws exist to protect our society’s order, and no breach is too small to matter. Without this strict adherence to justice, Hong Kong’s safe, civilized environment wouldn’t be possible.
The visit also deepened our respect for the legal process. From bail hearings to sentencing, every step was methodical and fair. Watching magistrates weigh evidence and decide punishments highlighted how carefully the system balances justice with mercy. Finally, as we left the courthouse and reflected on our experience, we found that the whole day fueled our passion for the law and paved the way for a safer tomorrow—one we will surely remember!