Multi-force mock trial offers rare insight into handling complex civil claims cases.
The Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) has led a multi-force legal training initiative designed to provide a realistic understanding of civil court proceedings. The event, held on 17 April 2026, brought together legal and policing professionals to explore how civil claims linked to health and safety incidents are handled in court.
Organised by the CNC’s Legal Services team, the mock trial formed part of a structured training programme aimed at those responsible for investigating compensation claims. Representatives from West Midlands Police, Staffordshire Constabulary, and the Metropolitan Police Service joined CNC colleagues to participate in the exercise.
The event took place at the Birmingham offices of DWF, which acted as host. Legal experts from Parklane Plowden chambers delivered the majority of the presentations and led the mock trial proceedings.
The programme began with a series of talks focusing on the fundamentals of employers’ liability and public liability claims. These sessions examined the types of documentary evidence required in such cases and outlined how claims are prepared for court. Speakers provided practical guidance on how evidence is assessed and presented during proceedings.
The mock trial itself centred on a fictional claim involving injuries sustained during a police exercise. Organisers designed the scenario to reflect the complexities of real-life litigation, allowing participants to observe how arguments are constructed and challenged in a courtroom setting. The exercise demonstrated how evidence is scrutinised to assist a judge in determining whether a claim has merit.
Attendees were given the opportunity to observe courtroom procedures in detail, including the physical layout of the court and the roles performed by legal professionals. The trial also featured cross-examination of witnesses by opposing barristers, offering insight into the level of questioning and analysis involved in civil proceedings.
Nayan Mesuria, Solicitor and Insurance Manager at the CNC, organised the event and took on the role of the claimant during the mock trial. Speaking after the session, Mesuria highlighted the importance of preparation in handling civil claims involving police forces.
“A civil claim against a police force is a very serious and complex matter,” Mesuria said. “We must handle every case with great professionalism and care, to achieve the best and just outcome.”
Mesuria explained that the training aimed to prepare legal and health and safety teams for the realities of courtroom proceedings. “The purpose of this event was to ensure that we are training those in our legal and health and safety teams on what to anticipate when a matter reaches the courtroom,” he said.
He added that the scenario provided a realistic representation of the scrutiny faced by both claimants and defendants. Initial feedback from participants indicated that the event was well received, with attendees describing the mock trial as both educational and engaging.
Mesuria also noted the value of collaboration with legal partners, stating that their expertise had strengthened the CNC’s approach to managing civil claims. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to improve preparedness and ensure appropriate handling of legal matters across participating organisations.