INTRODUCTION
This module introduces students to the basic advocacy skills. The worth of a lawyer is mainly determined from the ability to precisely present a matter in a persuasive manner before the courts of law. Such abilities for some do not come naturally and hence have to learn the skills. The Moot court module is therefore key in helping learners of law and prospective advocates to master the skills that will be crucial for them when admitted and have audience to practice law in the courts of law. The module therefore prepares learners in the basics of documents preparation for submissions to the courts and the basic advocacy skills. It guides them on how to lead evidence in court and how examination of witnesses in chief, cross and re-examination is conducted. The module further guides learners on the proper dress code for advocates, the basic etiquettes court and how to address the bench as an officer of the court.
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this module are:
- To introduce learners to the basic advocacy skills
- To train learners on document preparation and deposition into court
- To equip learners with knowledge on how to lead evidence and witnesses in court
- To guide learners on court etiquette. (dress code and how to address the bench in the different courts)
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this module you should be able to:
- Know and apply advocacy skills
- Know the rules on preparation and deposition of documents in court.
- Know the rules on how to lead evidence and examine witnesses in court
- Know how to conduct yourself in court.
UNIT 1 – PARTIES TO A MATTER
UNIT 2 – PREPARATION AND DEPOSITION OF DOCUMENTS – TRIAL MATTERS
UNIT 3 – PREPARATION AND DEPOSITION OF DOCUMENTS – APPEAL MATTERS
UNIT 4 – LEADING EVIDENCE AND WITNESSES AT TRIAL
UNIT 5 – JURY SYSTEMS
RECOMMENDED READING:
Criminal Procedure Code Chapter 88 of the Laws of Zambia
Dworsky. A.L. (1991). The Little Book of Oral Argument
Fontana Michael. Vitiello R., Miller W. David (2007). Persuasive Written and Oral Advocacy in Trial and Appellate Court
Matibini Patrick (2017) Civil Procedure; Commentary and Cases Vol 1& 2 LexisNexis
Swarbrick Eric. J (1993) Magistrate Handbook. 6th Edition. Republic of Zambia.
White Book (1965) 1999 Edition
ASSESSMENT
The assessment for Moot Court consists of two parts as follows:Written submissions: 50% Oral submissions: 50% Total: 100%