The Omagh Bombing Trial - Lessons Learned

This seminar will discuss Low Copy Number (LCN) DNA profiling within the context of the recent decision in R v Sean Hoey [2007] NICC 49. After the Forensic Institute conducted a thorough pre-trial assessment of the so-called 'scientific' evidence in this case, LCN was deemed by Weir J to be "not sufficiently scientifically validated" for use in legal proceedings. In fact, the lessons learned from this case extend beyond the bounds of LCN to all aspects of defence case preparation and scrutiny...

Monday 21st April

5.30pm—7pm

Is that a 5 year prison sentence in your pocket, or...

The classification of firearms & ammunition under complex UK legislation often creates difficult situations for lawyers. Prosecution experts & police examiners habitually apply the most draconian classifications to certain types of weapon, but there are often alternative hypotheses. Different approaches can make the difference between a mandatory minimum 5 year sentence & an acquittal. Our expert David Dyson discusses what constitutes a firearm and some challenges to prosecutions involving alleged firearms in the UK.

Monday 19th May

5.30pm—7pm

Not Just for Boffins - Presenting Science in Court

Presenting complex scientific evidence to lay factfinders can be fraught with difficulty. This seminar focuses on jury research which explores the shortcomings and pitfalls that affect the presentation of many disciplines of scientific evidence in criminal trials, and shows how science can be presented comprehensively and comprehensibly in court...

Monday 16th June

5.30pm - 7pm