We've all been captivated by the Oscar Pistorius trial as it has given us a rare glimpse into the courtroom. Over the last few days more and more attention has been given to the lawyers in the case and as with the OJ Simpson murder trial there are question marks about the behaviour of the advocates now that the world’s media is focused upon them. Are they behaving and conducting themselves as they would if the cameras were not pointing their way? The indication seems to be that perhaps they are not!
In our Q&A James Welsh, BPTC programme director and barrister with 20 years’ experience, discusses the style of the advocates in the case, Gerrie Nel & Barry Roux, the rules of advocacy in the UK and interrogates the line of questioning.
You shot and killed her!
But is this a question or a statement the prosecutor is making?
Then say it, ‘yes I shot and killed her’!
Is this relevant? Oscar had admitted to killing his girlfriend but denies murder
Videos of exploding watermelons
Is this appropriate to the case?