Litigation Skills Programme 2025

Applications open March 2025 - Would you like to be notified when applications open for 2025?

This week long programme provides in-depth hands-on training in the skills needed for successful courtroom advocacy.

Outline

• Day 1 – Introduction, theory of the case and communication skills
• Day 2 – Leading evidence, cross-examination and production of exhibits
• Day 3 – Cross-examination and impeachment
• Day 4 – Examination of expert witnesses
• Day 5 – Mini trials and opening addresses
• Day 6 – Closing arguments and pre-trial conferences
• Day 7 – Full trials where you will be counsel in a jury trial in the District Court and be critiqued by a judge (until 5.10pm), followed by a dinner and presentation of certificates.

Learning by doing with critique

You will perform in simulated courtroom exercises a number of times every day. To help you to recognise and learn from your mistakes, you will be critiqued by faculty members as soon as you complete your performance. All faculty are trained in the NITA method of teaching and will build a positive and supportive atmosphere within which critiques will be specific, clear, constructive and candid.

Learning by observing

Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to observe others in your group and hear them being critiqued. Your performance will be recorded every day and then critiqued through video review. You will also have the opportunity to observe experienced faculty conducting a variety of demonstrations and discuss differences in styles and methods.

Teaching approach

• See faculty demonstrate and discuss a major skill
• Practise that skill in a small group of eight participants
• Receive individual advice from faculty on improving your performance
• Review your performance on video with a third faculty member
• Observe members of your group perform and listen to faculty comment.