By: Saidu Jalloh
The Sierra Leone Advocacy Foundation has launched a comprehensive advocacy training programme for lawyers at Courtroom Number Three of the Sierra Leone High Court, aimed at strengthening practical courtroom skills, communication techniques, and ethical standards within the legal profession.
Hon. Justice G. Thompson, speaking at the opening session, emphasized the importance of the skills being taught, stating that they are essential not only for effective advocacy but also for fulfilling the administrative responsibilities of judicial proceedings. She highlighted that the core of advocacy requires persuasive argumentation, clarity in communication, and honesty, noting that “what you say must be what you mean.”
Justice Thompson stressed that strong advocacy must operate within universal standards of professional conduct, with lawyers expected to balance persuasive representation with integrity. She added that the primary responsibility of every advocate is to advance their client’s interests within the boundaries of the law.
The training programme employs the Hampel Method, a practical and experiential approach developed by Professor the Honourable George Hampel QC and Professor Her Honour Judge Felicity Hampel SC. This method, widely used internationally, emphasizes that advocacy is best learned through active practice rather than observation or theory. It is similar to the approach adopted by the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) in the United States.
Justice Thompson explained that participants will engage in real courtroom simulations and practical exercises, including cross-examinations and closing arguments. Trainees will receive immediate, constructive feedback from experienced practitioners and judges, enabling them to refine their techniques in a supportive learning environment.
She further noted that trainers will closely monitor performances and provide detailed analysis to build confidence. Describing the programme as a “challenging multi-modal experience,” she encouraged active participation, stressing that the exposure gained will significantly enhance participants’ professional development.
Justice R.S. Fynn, also addressing the trainees, highlighted the ethical standards expected of legal practitioners. He reminded participants that professionalism and integrity are central to the credibility of the legal profession. He stressed that lawyers must not bring the profession into disrepute.
Justice Fynn referenced Rule Five, emphasizing that lawyers must not knowingly or recklessly mislead the court. Practitioners are expected to take full responsibility for their submissions and promptly correct any inadvertent errors.
He also urged lawyers to maintain independence in their work, uphold client confidentiality, and refrain from taking advantage of clients. Justice Fynn emphasized that the Bar is a place of professionalism, not casual conversation or socializing.
The advocacy training programme continues, with lawyers from across the country participating in exercises designed to enhance courtroom competence, strategic reasoning, and ethical practice.