Criminal Advocacy - Magistrates' Court Trials BPP University

Overview

Conducting Magistrates’ Court trials requires confidence, structure and a strong command of the tactical decisions that arise during live proceedings. Whether you are regularly on your feet or preparing trials for others, you’ll gain the skills and strategies needed to approach Magistrates’ Court trials with clarity and assurance.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Criminal Advocacy - Magistrates' Court Trials course at BPP University you will be able to:

• Conduct effective examination‑in‑chief using section 139 CJA 2003 to draw out key evidence
• Cross‑examine confidently, highlight inconsistencies and know when to leave matters untouched in re‑examination
• Deliver structured openings and closing speeches, including 12 tactical points for closing
• Manage bad character and hearsay applications during trial and respond effectively to defence or prosecution applications
• Prepare cases thoroughly using a clear pre‑trial framework
• Understand the legal position on hostile witnesses and the options available to the calling party
• Identify burdens and standards of proof, including when the burden falls on the defence
• Navigate the structure of a Magistrates’ Court trial, including when and how to make submissions of no case to answer
• Respond strategically to unexpected developments, including breach‑of‑bail issues