Speaking parts in court

In a practice note issued this month, Lord Reed stated that, from 9 April, ‘when parties provide counsel’s agreed speaking times, the Supreme Court will also expect to receive confirmation, in instances where junior counsel are instructed but will not speak, that consideration has been given to whether junior counsel should have a speaking part’. Lord Reed was responding to a decline in oral advocacy from junior counsel.

He said, in the note, ‘Experience in advancing oral argument is essential if junior counsel are to progress, and experience of advocacy in the highest court can have a particular value.’