Engagement with students of law

Legal Oratory ACT Schools Mock Trial (October 2019)

On 24 October 2019, Justice Loukas-Karlsson presided over the Legal Oratory ACT Schools Mock Trial grand final, in which ACT high school students argued a Commonwealth criminal law case.

Jessup Moot (February 2020)

On 15 February 2020, Justice Loukas-Karlsson presided over the Australian semi-finals of the annual Philip C Jessup Moot competition, along with Mr Jonathon Redwood and Dr Christopher Ward SC. The competition required competitors to present oral and written submissions on a hypothetical international law problem before a panel of judges representing a simulated International Court of Justice. The successful semi-final winners then competed at the High Court in the grand final.

Loukas-Karlsson J, Jonathon Redwood, Dr Christopher Ward, SC with Jessup Moot competitors.

Presentation to ANU law students (May 2020)

In May 2020, Justice Loukas-Karlsson gave a presentation to ANU students via Zoom as part of the clinical legal program at the Legal Aid Youth Law Centre.

COVID-19

Less a highlight and more a low point, the threat of COVID-19 intruded into the ACT jurisdiction at the beginning of March 2020. The Supreme Court continued operations, albeit in some reduced capacity and with some operational limitations. The largest effect of COVID-19 on Court operations and the ACT community was the restriction and limitation on jury trials. An early mistrial over growing community concern of the virus in March 2020, and the announcement of the public health emergency measures, led to a suspension of jury trials from 3 April 2020, resuming 15 June 2020. Judge alone trials continued throughout the period and technological solutions were sought to ensure the vital work of the Court continued uninterrupted, albeit in a novel manner. The Court continued to conduct trials, sentencing, applications and lists throughout the COVID-19 restrictions by employing the use of audio-visual links and smart device technology to allow for remote appearances before the Court. Had this occurred prior to the completion of the upgraded and integrated courtrooms, the process may not have been possible. COVID-19 required the redirection of resources and staff quickly upgraded their skills and knowledge to cope with the rapidly evolving situation and changing public health orders. The Court will continue to monitor and respond to the public safety risk posed by COVID-19.

Contactless filing – Photo by Susan Little