How to Run a Jury Trial 2024

In this hands-on, how-to workshop, you will learn step-by-step, the practical aspects of preparing for and conducting a jury trial. Topics covered:

Preparing for the trial

• Dealing with the documents – disclosure (prosecution and defence), exhibits, preparing a trial file
• Developing the theory of the case
• Preliminary interviews, inspecting the scene, identifying the issues, who should be called
• The Criminal Procedure Act 2011
• Preparation – from election to trial
• Pre-trial applications
• Trial callover
• Final preparation
• Exploring resolutions other than by trial
• Experts and private investigators, when to engage the experts and the type of inquiries that can be made

Conducting the trial itself

• Further pre-trial preparation (s 9 agreements)
• Trial procedure
• Dealing with witnesses
• Calling the defendant
• Openings and closings, leading evidence, cross-examination
• Ethical issues
• What the bench expects – hear from a local District Court Judge

This workshop is a must for all practitioners who see themselves as specialising in criminal law, who are already on the level one legal aid list, and are seeking inclusion in the level two legal aid list, or have been recently appointed to the level two legal aid list.

Presenters: Emma Priest and Craig Ruane