Elevating Advocacy: Expert Panel to Tackle Cross-Examination of Vulnerable Witnesses in Children’s Proceedings

On Monday, 19 May 2025, Victoria Roberts, barrister with Coram Chambers, will be presenting at a training event focused on the critical and often challenging area of cross-examination of vulnerable…

On Monday, 19 May 2025, Victoria Roberts, barrister with Coram Chambers, will be presenting at a training event focused on the critical and often challenging area of cross-examination of vulnerable witnesses within children’s proceedings.

This exclusive session, hosted in conjunction with the London Children’s Lawyers and Coram Children’s Legal Centre, promises to be an invaluable opportunity for legal professionals invested in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.

Event Details
Date: Monday, 19 May 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Lecture Hall & Fielding Rooms, Queen Elizabeth II Centre, 41 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ

The evening will begin with presentations and discussions led by a panel of distinguished experts.

Meet the Presenters:

  • Victoria Roberts (Barrister, Coram Chambers): With a wealth of experience in family law, Victoria is well-known for her empathetic approach and commitment to advocating for vulnerable clients. Her expertise in public law cases, particularly those concerning children, ensures that participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved in cross-examination.
  • Artis Kakonge (Deputy Head of Family, No 5 Chambers): Artis brings her extensive advocacy skills and experience in handling sensitive family law matters to the panel, navigating complex intersections between family legislation and the Court of Protection.
  • Daniel Longe (Solicitor-Advocate, Freelance-Advocats’ Virtual Chambers): With over 17 years in family law, Daniel’s practical insights into contested hearings and safeguarding will be instrumental for practitioners looking to enhance their advocacy skills.
  • Raman Rai (Partner, JD Spicer Zeb Solicitors): As an accredited member of the Law Society’s Children Panel, Raman is deeply involved in high-stakes children law proceedings, ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable individuals are heard.
  • Elizabeth Wark (Barrister): With a unique background in nursing, Elizabeth offers an invaluable perspective on the challenges faced by individuals under extreme stress, enriching discussions around the complexities of emotional and psychological trauma in legal contexts.
  • Deborah Piccos (Panel Chair): Deborah’s extensive experience in public law matters and her roles in various legal associations add depth to the panel’s discussions, bridging the gap between legal theory and practice.

Networking Opportunity
The event will commence at 6:30 PM following an opening meet-and-greet. Attendees will also be able to engage further with the panel and peers during a networking session from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Registration Information
This free event requires prior registration. Attendees are encouraged to secure their places via Eventbrite here.

For further inquiries, please contact vyvy.lewis@coramclc.org.uk.

Join us for what promises to be an enlightening evening aimed at equipping legal professionals with the skills to effectively support and represent vulnerable witnesses in children’s proceedings, thereby ensuring justice is served with compassion and integrity.