< strong>Topic for this session is "Should the right to jury trials in England and Wales be further li mited?".
\n \nDetails of t he preparation required in advance of this session is available below. You will be able to download it using the link. Please ensure that you prepare in good time.
\n \nAs a barrister you may well be called upon to represent somebody whom you do not like\, or to present an argument with which yo u do not agree. \; \; The ability to look at your own case (and your opponent’s) objectively is a key skill.
\n \nMany of the cases wit
h which barristers are involved involve people in
a heightened emotional state. \; Some raise a
large amount of public attention and\, possibly\,
outcry. \;The barrister’s ability to remain ca
lm and focussed on their task is vital in these ci
rcumstances.
\n We live in a society where su
ch an approach to issues is often discouraged or r
idiculed. \; Expression of views on some topic
s attracts significant negative attention and ther
efore many stay silent.
The purpose of the “Tough Topics” sessions is to assist in train ing barristers\, in particular students and pupils \, to focus on issues and see them in an objective and balanced way without allowing personal views to play any part.
\n \nEach session will focus on a highly controversial issue or topic. \;& nbsp\; The session will be chaired by an experienc ed lawyer. \; \; They will assist in facil itating the session and ensuring that the purpose of the session is preserved.
\n \nA speaker
on opposing sides of the issue will each speak (u
ninterrupted) for 10-15 minutes.
\n Participa
nts will then be allowed to ask questions which mu
st only be designed to clarify or obtain further r
elevant information from the speakers. \; No “
loaded” or partisan questioning is permitted.
Once the questioning has finished\, partic ipants will attempt to summarise the arguments as objectively and fairly as possible. \; \;& nbsp\;
\n \nThese sessions are inte nded to be interesting and stimulating. \;&nbs p\; They are also intended to be sessions in which all those attending actively participate.
\n \nThey are not suitable for t hose who seek a session where one attends and obse rves without becoming involved. \; Numbers wil l be limited for each session to ensure that every one can participate. \; Please do not register for this session if you are not committed to atte nding or engaging fully in it.
\n \n < hr />\nStudent members (including tra nsferring lawyers) must attend all elements of the event in order to be awarded the Qualifying Sessi on. This includes any lecture/talk/reception/dinne r/speeches.
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