Tough Topics | Topic TBC

Topic for this session is TBC

Overview of Tough Topic Sessions

As a barrister you may well be called upon to represent somebody whom you do not like, or to present an argument with which you do not agree.   The ability to look at your own case (and your opponent’s) objectively is a key skill.

Many of the cases with which barristers are involved involve people in a heightened emotional state.  Some raise a large amount of public attention and, possibly, outcry. The barrister’s ability to remain calm and focussed on their task is vital in these circumstances.
We live in a society where such an approach to issues is often discouraged or ridiculed.  Expression of views on some topics attracts significant negative attention and therefore many stay silent.

The purpose of the “Tough Topics” sessions is to assist in training barristers, in particular students and pupils, to focus on issues and see them in an objective and balanced way without allowing personal views to play any part.

The format of the session 

Each session will focus on a highly controversial issue or topic.   The session will be chaired by an experienced lawyer.   They will assist in facilitating the session and ensuring that the purpose of the session is preserved.

A speaker on opposing sides of the issue will each speak (uninterrupted) for 10-15 minutes.
Participants will then be allowed to ask questions which must only be designed to clarify or obtain further relevant information from the speakers.  No “loaded” or partisan questioning is permitted.

Once the questioning has finished, participants will attempt to summarise the arguments as objectively and fairly as possible.   

These sessions are intended to be interesting and stimulating.   They are also intended to be sessions in which all those attending actively participate.

They are not suitable for those who seek a session where one attends and observes without becoming involved.  Numbers will be limited for each session to ensure that everyone can participate.  Please do not register for this session if you are not committed to attending or engaging fully in it.

Details of the preparation required in advance of this session will be made available to ticket holders in due course, and no less than one week before the session. You will be able to download it using the link at the top of this page. Please ensure that you prepare in good time.

Student members (including transferring lawyers) must attend all elements of the event in order to be awarded the Qualifying Session. This includes any lecture/talk/reception/dinner/speeches.

Members of the Inn only

Click here to see details of the QS Requirements and how to be credited with the QS for this session

Learning Aims

After this session, students should be able to:

• Identify information and arguments from an objective standpoint and summarise them in a balanced and fair way
• Formulate questions in an inquisitorial way, designed to seek information, rather than score points
• Recognise the ethical importance of maintaining professional conduct and standards when faced with arguments or clients with whom one may personally disagree
• Demonstrate the ethos of the profession, namely that all deserve representation regardless of their views.

Links to the Professional Statement, wider workings of the Bar, administration of justice or a public interest matter

The QS will align with these elements of the professional statement:

• 1.5

Click here to view the BSB's Professional Statement

QS Feedback

If you have any feedback on a QS you have attended or have any suggestions for future sessions, please contact the education department on education@middletemple.org.uk

If you have questions about accessibility at the Inn or if you would like to request support, please email Laura Hacon.

The Inn is committed to improving access to all its services and encourages members to get in touch with suggestions and feedback on how we can improve. If you feel your experience using the website or attending one of our events could be improved, please email Laura. Your suggestions will be treated in the strictest confidence.