BPTC Advocacy and Oral Skills

Question 1

During examination-in-chief, which type of question is generally NOT permitted?

Accepted Answer

Leading questions

Answer

Leading questions (those which suggest the answer) are generally not permitted during examination-in-chief because the purpose is for the witness to give their own account in their own words. Leading questions are permitted in cross-examination, where the advocate is testing the evidence of the opposing party's witness.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of cross-examination in advocacy?

Accepted Answer

To test the reliability and credibility of the witness's evidence and to put your client's case

Answer

Cross-examination serves two main purposes: to challenge the accuracy and credibility of the witness's testimony, and to put your client's case to the witness (the rule in Browne v Dunn). Effective cross-examination uses focused, leading questions to control the witness and highlight weaknesses in their evidence.

Question 3

What is the rule in Browne v Dunn (1893) and why is it important in advocacy?

Accepted Answer

It requires a party to put their case to an opponent's witness during cross-examination if they intend to contradict that witness's evidence

Answer

The rule in Browne v Dunn requires that if you intend to argue that a witness is lying or mistaken, you must put your version of events to that witness during cross-examination, giving them the opportunity to respond. Failure to do so may result in the court drawing adverse inferences or excluding the contradictory evidence.

Question 4

In a criminal trial at the Crown Court, who typically delivers the opening speech?

Accepted Answer

The prosecution barrister

Answer

The prosecution opens the case because the burden of proof lies with the Crown. The prosecution barrister outlines the case, summarises the evidence to be called, and identifies the issues the jury will need to decide. The defence does not ordinarily make an opening speech unless calling evidence other than the defendant's testimony.

Question 5

What is a submission of no case to answer, and when is it made?

Accepted Answer

It is made at the close of the prosecution's case, arguing the evidence is insufficient for a reasonable jury to convict

Answer

A submission of no case to answer (sometimes called a 'half-time submission') is made by the defence at the close of the prosecution's evidence. It argues that the prosecution has failed to adduce sufficient evidence upon which a reasonable jury, properly directed, could convict. If successful, the judge directs an acquittal.

BPTC Practice Test

BPTC Practice Test

BPTC Advocacy and Oral Skills