Thorough preparation is the vital first step to winning a case. This Manual sets out practical advice on how to identify the relevant law and how to manage the facts in order to present a convincing case. Efficient legal research is an essential skill for the barrister. The important aspects of legal research such as identifying keywords, ensuring research is up-to-date, using hard copy and computer data bases are explained fully. Another necessary skill in the preparation of a successful case is that of fact management. A legal action arises from a set of facts which must be mastered by the barrister before a solution can be proposed. Fact management skills are explained within this Manual by using the systematic CAP Stage 1, understand the CONTEXT; Stage 2, ANALYSE the issues and evidence; Stage 3, PRESENT the argument. This Manual uses a realistic set of papers which demonstrates a step-by-step approach for effective preparation in both civil and criminal cases.
Thorough preparation is the vital first step to winning a case. This Manual sets out practical advice on how to identify the relevant law and how to manage the facts in order to present a convincing case. Efficient legal research is an essential skill for the barrister. The important aspects of legal research such as identifying keywords, ensuring research is up-to-date, using hard copy and computer data bases are explained fully. Another necessary skill in the preparation of a successful case is that of fact management. A legal action arises from a set of facts which must be mastered by the barrister before a solution can be proposed. Fact management skills are explained within this Manual by using the systematic CAP Stage 1, understand the CONTEXT; Stage 2, ANALYSE the issues and evidence; Stage 3, PRESENT the argument. This Manual uses a realistic set of papers which demonstrates a step-by-step approach for effective preparation in both civil and criminal cases.