SYLA confirms Criminal Day programme, and simple procedure event

Lawyers thinking of attending the Scottish Young Lawyers’ Association Criminal Day Conference this coming Saturday, 20 January 2018, have two days left to book their place.

The SYLA issued the reminder as it confirmed the programme for the conference, which runs from 9.30am-5pm (registration from 9am) at 200 SVS, 200 St Vincent Street, Glasgow.

Sponsored by the Scottish Criminal Bar Association and eligible for six hours' CPD, the event opens with a welcome from Wendy Hay (SCBA secretary and chair), followed by a presentation from Vincent Lunny with top tips on advocacy.

Further presentations are from Thomas Ross QC on questioning and submitting, Drew McKenzie on interpreters in criminal trials, Sarah Livingston and Tony Lenehan on "things we know but probably don't", Craig Findlater on the "10 commandments" of cross examination, and finally SCBA President Claire Mitchell on what she wishes someone told her when she was a young lawyer.

There will be networking opportunities through the day and afterwards at a drinks reception.

Tickets are available from this link until Thursday 18 January.

Beyond the basics

The SYLA has also announced the next talk in its "Beyond the Basics" series. Fourteen months after the launch of the Simple Procedure Rules, it will be taking a look at how they have developed in practice.

Sheriff Peter McCormack will give an overview of the differences between simple procedure and small claims/summary cause before giving helpful hints and tips from a sheriff's perspective. Particularly helpful may be his insight into efficiently conducting a case management hearing and how best to prepare for an evidential hearing. As always, the talk will be followed by a Q&A session.

The talk will take place from 6-7pm in the Appleton Tower, University of Edinburgh on Tuesday 30 January 2018.  Tickets are available from this link. This event may qualify for one hour's CPD.