Program Chairs:
Danielle Robitaille, Henein Hutchison Robitaille LLP
Michael S. F. Watson, Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP

---

Block One will dissect the theory, strategy, and preparation required for a successful cross-examination. You will hear about the rules and objectives of cross-examination, learn how to strategize, and get practical tips for preparing yourself and your client for the rigours of cross-examination

You will also have the unique opportunity to participate in an “Ask Me Anything” breakout session, where you will get the chance to ask a senior practitioner questions related to preparing for cross-examination and get the answers you need in a safe and supportive environment. Please come prepared with questions in order to get the most out of the session.

Block One will be held on March 7, Block Two will be on April 4, and Block Three - the learning-by-doing skills workshop will be held on May 16. There are several registration options: (1) All three Blocks - both plenary sessions + workshop (2) Block One only (3) Block Two only (4) both Block One and Block Two only (see below for more information).  Please note that only registrants who have completed Blocks One and Two will be allowed to participate in Block Three.

Plenary Details | Tuesday, March 7, 2023, 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm (ET)
At TAS, our focus has always been on you - the learner. That’s why we created the Building Block Series, the interactive, award-winning program format that invites you to go deeper, make connections, and hone skills that will have an immediate impact on your practice.  Delivered in 3 ‘blocks’ over the course of 3 months, Building Blocks combines peer-to-peer commentary, lively demonstrations, and individualized feedback for a learning experience like no other!

This year’s Building Blocks theme is Cross Examination – one of the most difficult (and most important) advocacy skills to master. Join co-chairs Danielle Robitaille and Michael Watson (winner of TAS’ prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching), along with seasoned members of the Bench and Bar, to break down fundamentals, strategic considerations, preparation, execution and style - everything you need to master the art of cross-examination.

Topics Include:

• The law governing cross-examination, including scope and limitations
• The most important things to think about before you even start to prepare
• Strategic considerations on when to cross and when not to cross
• How to excel at different types of cross-examination
• What senior practitioners bring with them to court
• What to do during direct to ensure a good cross

Workshop Details | Tuesday, May 16, 2023, 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm (ET)
Participants of Blocks One and Two of Cross-Examination: Building Block Series are eligible to join us for Block Three, the hands-on skills workshop, which will be held fully remotely. The workshop is your chance to practise and refine your cross-examination and impeachment skills in a supportive environment.
 
Please also note that the workshop requires advance preparation based on a realistic mock case file, which will be provided to you in advance of the workshop.

Click here to register for all 3 sessions at our special bundle rate.

Registration includes program materials, which will be provided prior to each session. Registration also includes access to the live webcast recording for 30 days from the date the link is sent to you. Please note that small group breakout sessions and skills workshops will not be recorded.

*Due to current concerns with COVID-19, we will be offering this program fully remotely via webcast only.

**Registrants who take advantage of the bundle rate after the start of the series will be provided with access to the relevant video-recording(s).

Please review the system requirements to view a Zoom webinar here.