Luna volunteers in Truro Magistrates’ Court. After five years at home with her daughter, Luna is volunteering with CASS+. This is the ideal way to resume her legal career after taking a break.
Perfect environment
This is the perfect environment for Luna to hone her skills and knowledge. She is inside the court, working alongside the CASS+ team, legal advisors, ushers and probation. She is in the right place for her chosen career. This is why Luna volunteers in Truro Magistrate’s Court.
Building her experience
Luna knew she wanted to become a Barrister from the age of 11. She loved watching ‘Law and Order’ and enjoyed debating from an early age. She now has a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Masters of Laws (LLM). On top of this, she has completed the postgraduate Barristers’ Course. As a result, she was called to the Bar in 2023 and took the title of Barrister.
She put things on hold to look after her daughter and now she’s growing her confidence and experience by volunteering at CASS+.
Volunteering one day a week
Luna has been volunteering with our team in Truro Magistrates’ Court one day a week. As a returning mum, she deeply values this opportunity. CASS+ is her stepping stone to finding and obtaining a 12-month pupillage within local Chambers. Eventually, she will be able to practice as a barrister, specialising in criminal law.
Giving back
Luna is giving back whilst building her legal experience. She is so thankful that she has the flexibility with child care. She loves volunteering:
This is a great charity. CASS+ is my second family. Everyone is so friendly and understanding. I’m having so many intelligent conversations and my knowledge is really growing.
Learning
My education was one thing, but I’m now seeing the reality of each individual situation. I’m learning to see the person, rather than labelling them as a ‘defendant’. It’s so important to meet people face-to-face. This is how we can assess their situation and get vulnerable people the help they need.
On top of this, I had no idea there are so many Cornish organisations offering support for so many issues, from addiction to housing and from domestic abuse to mental health.
Each day brings something new – I’m even learning new legal terminology, despite studying law!
PIP comes up a lot
PIP (Personal Independence Payment) comes up a lot. We recently helped someone after their tribunal because their PIP application had gone to appeal. The tribunal was successful. As a result, we assisted with their PIP forms and they received a substantial back payment.
We also helped with all the form-filling for things like Universal Credit, a Blue Badge and even a Bus Pass.
People are always so thankful for the support. It’s wonderful to see people standing tall, each time with a brighter smile.
I dread to think what would have happened if we hadn’t been there that day at court. People just need someone to lift them up and help them start afresh.
We all make mistakes
We all make mistakes. You can’t judge a book by its cover. When you open the book, you need to read every page and footnote to truly understand and get to know the person. We’re here for anyone who wants to make changes after court. We will assist any way we can. We are here for you and your loved ones.
Doing something positive
Finally, Luna is looking forward to her future as a practicing barrister. But, above all, she feels glad that she is volunteering in Truro Magistrates’ Court. She is doing something positive for the people around her.
Celebrating Volunteer Week 2025
We want to say a big thank you to each and every one of our 30 volunteers. We could not run this essential service without our volunteers. Thanks so much.
Thinking of volunteering?
Interested in joining Luna as a volunteer? Find out how you can help here and get in touch by emailing admin@cassplus.org to apply.