THROUGH MY EYES: PRACTICE WEEK WITH JUUC

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If you’ve ever wanted to know what "practice week" really feels like, then buckle up—I’m taking you behind the scenes, through my personal experience as a proud member of JUUC Chambers. And not just any member, mind you, but a certified Team Love girlie (best team, no debates, even if the others want to argue). *Winks.

Courtroom Realities: First Stop

We kicked off Practice Week with a court visit. Now, books will try to prepare you, but nothing truly does. The moment I stepped into the courtroom, I felt it,that calm, solemn, almost sacred air. It was pin-drop silent.

We witnessed about three cases. All were adjourned, but the first? Electrifying. One of the lawyers was so fierce and compelling, I couldn’t look away. Sadly, it ended too soon—adjourned again. Still, I felt that courtroom fire light up something in me.

Of course, we documented it—pictures, reflections, the whole thing. But I didn’t know that was just the beginning.

Into the Deep: Arbitration Drama

Then came the twist: I was called to join my team for the Arbitration round. Plot twist? I had zero idea how Arbitration worked. Judge me if you want,but that’s when my team showed up for me. Team lead, senior colleagues, teammates, everyone came together. It was late nights and long hours, but we prepped hard.

When D-Day arrived, my nerves were on edge. Just as we started, a preliminary objection was raised: “They're all in Year 2!” My heart legit dropped. Thankfully, the panel considered the circumstances and we weren’t disqualified.

Then it was my turn to speak. I won’t lie my hands were trembling. But I spoke. I was audible. I didn’t crumble. And just when I thought I could breathe, the opposing counsel pointed out that the case I cited didn’t exist. Omo! Another panic moment. But still, I stood my ground. We moved.

Mock Trial Madness

Dissatisfied with the Arbitration outcome, the case moved to court. And here? The facts were not in our favour. We tried everything—challenged evidence procedures, argued technicalities, and stuck to what we could. If you can’t win by the law, argue the facts. And that’s exactly what we did.

But the other team. Oh, they came prepared. Their counsels were sharp and unrelenting. It was a true intellectual war. And even though we didn’t win, we didn’t go down easy either.

Lessons Over Wins

The verdict? 
We lost the case. But I gained so much more.

Although losing the case was painful, I'm human.

I survived.

I spoke.

I learned.

The “you did well” messages hit differently. And yeah, I shared the experience on LinkedIn. Because why not? It was a milestone.

Also… I picked a new interest: ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution). 

All thanks to the wild, wonderful Practice Week.

Below are some pictures for your viewing pleasure.

P.S - I really look good in a wig and gown. Don't you think so?



BY REGINA OSAMBO

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