Concept & design
This Court was conceived in the belief that it will foster an ethos of debate in the teaching of law at the Faculty. It is designed to bring to students the dignity and austerity of a court of law, allowing them to develop the advocacy skills by which lawyers are judged.
The Bench presides over the court room. It accommodates up to three presiding officers - a judge and two assessors or up to three arbitrators. In front of the bench is the table of the judge's registrar. To the right is the recorder's table, from which all audio-visual, video conferencing and lighting is controlled. To the left is a witness stand from which evidence may be given, or which may double as a lectern for presentations.
The curve of Counsel's table enables up to six counsel on each side of a debate to appear before the bench whilst still having sight of each other, and not being entirely removed from the gallery. The design of the table is such that large plans or diagrams, which are often used in the presentation of cases, are facilitated.
The rear of the court is taken with the gallery. Three rows of tables accommodate up to 42 persons. The curve of the gallery allows a measure of debate throughout the gallery, and ensures that the gallery and counsels' table make up a single unit.
The Court is intended also to serve as a formal meeting place for the Board of the Faculty of Law.