Retired Judge and former Barrister John Burgess returns with a series of new interviews answering your questions about justice and the law
Have you ever found yourself watching a gripping courtroom drama and asking, “Does it really happen like that?” With so many shows inspired by real-life legal cases, it’s easy to be left wondering how justice really works behind the scenes.
The National Justice Museum — a museum of crime and punishment based in the heart of Nottingham — brings real stories to life with its authentic spaces, costumed performers, and interactive trial performances. For many visitors, a trip to the museum sparks even more curiosity. That’s where Open Court, the museum’s very own law and justice podcast, comes in.
Open Court – hosted by retired Crown Court Judge and former barrister John Burgess – returns for a new season that takes a deep dive into the inner workings of a system that impacts everyone’s day to day life.
In the first two seasons, John interviewed people working in the justice system – from ushers to Lord and Lady Justices – about their job and how they came to be doing it, giving people an insight into the routes into careers in law.
Season three takes a different approach. The team at the museum asked their visitors, from the public to educational groups, for their questions about how the justice system works – questions that were sparked after a visit to the museum, taking part in an interactive trial and exploring the ancient cells.
To get the answers to questions like “do you have to do jury service if you’re asked?”, “how does the legal system deal with crimes committed on social media?”, and “why do judges wear wigs?”, John has travelled the country to interview experts in their field. Even with 40 years in the court system, John still learned something new!
Episode one is out now, where John interviews Judge Steve Coupland about what it means to be part of the judiciary, and how closely they work with parliament and government on upholding the law.
New episodes are launching every fortnight, with fascinating guests including magistrates, wig and gown makers, and the National Justice Museum’s own Head Interpreter Stephen Dennis.
Whether you’ve never set foot in a courtroom or just want to brush up on how our justice system works, Open Court is the perfect place to start.
Listen now on Spotify – just search for Open Court with John Burgess.
Posted on 12 May 2025
