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Mock trials, handcuffs and sirens

BC Law Day in Rossland emphasizes public access
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Seven-year-olds John Aiken (left) and Tommy Gelber get a lesson in forensic analysis from Corporal Theresa Oelke of the Nelson Forensic Identification unit at the BC Law Day celebrations at the Rossland Court House on Saturday.

A trip to the courthouse usually isn’t about fun for most people. But the region’s lawyers tried to pry open the doors of justice a crack on Saturday to show the public the law really is for them.

The local chapter of the Canadian Bar Association held its Law Day celebrations at the Rossland Court House on the weekend.

The public could find themselves in the docket facing a series of trumped-up charges, or learn investigative techniques with a forensic officer, watch a mock trial involving the Big Bad Wolf (defendant) and Three Little Pigs (plaintiff), climb on a fire truck or take a tour of the basement jail cells.

“It’s about celebrating the law,” said courthouse administrator Denis Senecal. “Law Day celebrates the signing of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, back in 1982.”

A news release said Law Week provides an excellent opportunity for the profession to educate the public about the vital role that lawyers and the judiciary serve in guaranteeing an open, independent and unbiased judicial system.

Senecal says local lawyers wanted to emphasize how the courts are open to all, and the open house at the normally very-formal building was a great way to do that.