Practical Advocacy Weekend 2026

Practical Advocacy Weekend 2026

Sold out in 2025, this intensive course offers valuable experience in appearing before the court for junior practitioners, practitioners, those new to litigation and anyone seeking to update their advocacy skills.

The course includes practical exercises in small groups with guidance and constructive feedback from volunteer coaches who are experienced advocates, including barristers and members of the judiciary.

In preparation for the weekend, you will attend a briefing session covering:

• Case theory and case analysis from our head coaches.
• Voice and performance coaching (also provided before the weekend).

The practical application comprises one civil interlocutory injunction, where participants argue for either the applicant or the respondent, and one criminal matter, which will allow the participants to practice the examination and cross-examination of witnesses and closing statements. Aspiring advocates will recognise the benefits of this programme.

Compulsory Pre-Weekend Sessions:

Briefing Session with Bill Keane SC and Anthony Crocker

Date: Thursday, 20 August 2026
Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Venue: The Law Society of Western Australia, Level 5, 160 St Georges Terrace, Perth

Bill Keane SC and Anthony Crocker will instruct participants on the best ways to prepare their cases for the Practical Advocacy Weekend. You will receive a rundown of what to expect over the weekend, along with your course materials.

Voice and Performance Coaching with Julia Moody

Date: Saturday, 22 August 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12.00pm
Venue: College of Law

This session will provide an invaluable opportunity to gain insights from one of Western Australia’s leading voice and performance coaches. Julia Moody will offer practical techniques to help you develop and improve your courtroom performance and case delivery.

Practical Advocacy Weekend

Date: Saturday, 29 August 2026
Time: 8.20am – 5.00pm
and
Date: Sunday, 30 August 2025
Time: 8.30am – 1.30pm
Venue: The Children’s Court of Western Australia, 160 Pier St, Perth

At Practical Advocacy Weekend, you will gain hands on experience by performing as an advocate in a real courtroom environment, supported by a advocate/coach ratio of six to two. Experienced coaches will observe your performance and use proven techniques to provide effective feedback.

Comments from previous participants:

‘The course was the most rewarding course that I have ever done. I am so appreciative to have had this opportunity to get such valuable individualised feedback from esteemed members of the profession. I learnt so much over the weekend that I will be able to apply to both preparing for trials and appearing in court generally.’

‘The Practical Advocacy Weekend exceeded my expectations. I am definitely a more confident advocate because of it!’