Many members of Chambers specialise
in the area of sexual offences, whether
prosecuting or defending. They have
become enured to the long hours
required in preparation of such cases
and also to the sensitivity with which
advocates must treat all parties
involved, whether they be witnesses
in a case or the families of witnesses,
or when dealing with a defendant who
may need careful treatment.

Examination of witnesses either
in-chief or in cross-examination can
be particularly taxing in cases of this
sort and demanding of a style of
advocacy tailored to meet the facts,
and to suit the parties concerned –
frequently vulnerable, with mental
problems or special needs. Many
witnesses give evidence over a
videolink in this type of case, or
from behind a screen, and that can
present its own problems.

There is, of course, a vast range of
offences of a sexual nature or with
sexual connotations. Chambers will
provide suitable advocates for any
such cases, whether of a more minor
kind, for example indecent exposure
or minor sexual assault, or more
serious, such as the publication of
obscene material or rape. It is
recognised that all allegations of a
sexual kind will be of immense
importance to the individuals involved,
whether witnesses or defendants,
and each case will merit the utmost
professionalism and sensitivity.