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Now in its 40th year, this week-long programme provides in-depth hands-on training in the skills needed for successful courtroom advocacy.
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 District Court jury trial and be critiqued by a judge, followed by dinner and presentation of certificates.
Learning by doing with critique
You will perform in simulated courtroom exercises several times every day and be critiqued by faculty members. All faculty are trained in the NITA method of teaching and will build a positive, supportive atmosphere with specific, clear, constructive and candid critiques.
Learning by observing
You will observe others in your group and hear them being critiqued, and your own performance will be recorded every day and the video critiqued. You will also observe faculty demonstrating and discussing different styles and methods.
Teaching approach
By attending this course you will:
This practical, week-long course will develop your advocacy skills using a variety of activities including working with senior counsel in small groups, learning by doing and observing, and taking part in a mock trial on the final day.
Designed for practitioners in their first five years of practice.
Please note:
You must complete an application form to be considered to attend this course.
Please complete and return to:
Kylie Barton
Course Manager
[email protected]
Download course application form
Director: Bob Hollyman KC
Deputy Director: Natalie Walker
Team Leaders: Her Honour Judge Debra Bell, Hon Paul Heath KC, His Honour Judge Jonathan Krebs and His Honour Judge Noel Sainsbury
Faculty: 70 senior practitioners
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Director: Bob Hollyman KC Shortland Chambers, Auckland Bob is an experienced litigator and has been a member of Shortland Chambers since 2006. He has specific interests in torts, contract, restitution, company and commercial disputes, and insolvency. |
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Deputy Director: Natalie Walker Kayes Fletcher Walker, Auckland Natalie is the Crown Solicitor for Manukau, having been appointed to that role in May 2015. She is one of four directors of Manukau-based law firm Kayes Fletcher Walker which employs around 45 lawyers to undertake the prosecution of all serious crime on behalf of the Crown in South Auckland. |
A course folder and casefile will be sent to you in advance.
This fully residential course will be held at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch. Accommodation is in standard student accommodation comprising single rooms with shared bathroom facilities.
You must submit your course application form to CLE along with your scholarship application form/s. You cannot be considered for a scholarship if I have not submitted an application for a place on the programme.
Download course application form
Christchurch | 24 - 30 August 2025 |
Withdrawal from the programme before the application closing date incurs no cost. After that date if the participant is able to be replaced an administration fee of $400 is charged. If no replacement is found, no refund is payable. Note: Applications MUST reach CLE by 5.00pm on Wednesday 4 June 2025. You will be notified within two weeks of the closing date whether you have a place on the course.