Freehills Trial Advocacy Competition

The Freehills Trial Advocacy Competition involves a simulated criminal trial. Competitors go through all the major components of a real trial, from the opening address through to cross examination of witnesses and the closing address. The competition tests students' ability to think quickly, form a clear and consistent case theory and plan and execute a well thought out cross examination. Questions must be clear and succinct, and a knowledge of evidence law is helpful in the competition.

The competition runs with one barrister and one non-competitive witness for each side. Competitors are randomly assigned to represent the Prosecution or Defendant on the day of the competition. Materials for the round will be given to the competitors one hour and thirty minutes prior to the commencement of their trial. During this time, competitors are given one hour to analyse the materials and thirty minutes to consult their witness. The materials given to competitors will consist of the statement of their witness, the statement of the opponent’s witness and the relevant sections of any Acts.

If you feel that you are not ready to compete but still wish to be involved, you can volunteer to be a witness for the competition. This is an easy way to experience the excitement of trial advocacy while still learning and helping your fellow friends and colleagues as well!

If you have any queries, please contact Rebecca Stanley and Jeffrey Tran, the Trial Advocacy Coordinators at trialadvocacy@unswlawsoc.org.