This module examines the basic principles and techniques of advocacy for lawyers engaged in commercial disputes. The focus is on England and Wales, but much of the material the module covers applies to advocacy in other jurisdictions.
The module combines theory and practice. The theory derives mostly from classical rhetoric, the name given to the systems for teaching oratory developed by the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Much of classical rhetoric remains relevant to modern advocacy. The practical parts of the module cover some of the key skills of commercial advocates in this jurisdiction, including case analysis, written and oral submissions, and cross-examination. Many of the module materials either come from real commercial cases or were written by commercial lawyers.
The convenor of this module practised as a commercial barrister in London for over 20 years.
15 Credits