Trial practice and advocacy

The presentation of a court trial requires a broad, complex and diverse range of skills, including the ability to develop and then present a persuasive case theory. This unit focuses on the development of those specialised skills and expert judgement needed for this aspect of legal practice. You will learn to evaluate how the factual and evidentiary foundations of a case relate to the legal result. The theory covered and skills practised in this unit include case analysis, development of strategy, trial preparation, presentation skills, ethics, evidence and legal argument.

Following a series of introductory lectures, you will participate in small group workshops. During the workshops, you will perform as part of a mock trial; you will present an opening statement, conduct an examination in chief, cross-examine a witness and present a closing address. During these workshops, individualised feedback is provided. These workshops are also ideal as examination preparation as they mirror the assessment tasks set for this unit.

This unit will be of benefit not only to students who are contemplating practice at the Bar, or as solicitor advocates, but also to those who want to build confidence in their public speaking.