Four Lawyers, a Dinner Table, and Lessons They Didn’t Teach in Class
By Ryan Bingham
May 2025
Taking on a full case offered a glimpse into the daily life of a practicing lawyer.
On the 26thof April, I, just a first-year student, had the opportunity to represent the university alongside Simran Bhutada in the National Law Student Triathlon – organised by Darren Weir at Kent University. The day consisted of a county court application hearing, a negotiation, and a moot. In between events were training sessions run by Bernard Richmond KC – an insightful figure with a wealth of experience and no shortage of stories from his time as a KC. The morning training taught us about the importance of control in being a strong advocate and we were able to test our cross-examination skills in the afternoon training.
Advocacy
The county court advocacy was an eye-opening experience. The hearing format differed greatly from the structured moots I’d experienced at Warwick. It could be best described as a seated discussion with a panel of three judges. Throughout the day, Mr Thornton, Emily Jennett, and Morton Thornton grew a reputation for being tough judges. It is safe to say that the rumours were true. All confidence I had soon crumbled when questioned. My submissions were met with blunt replies or dismissed with “that doesn’t matter, does it?” Eventually, I found my stride and thoroughly enjoyed the conversation about a case I had invested days into preparing. The event was an invaluable lesson in remaining calm and getting across the most vital points – advocating for your client even if the Judge seems uninterested.
Negotiation
Arguably the most enjoyable event of the day was the negotiation. Judged by Stacey Hards, Cara Hall, and an employment solicitor, our job was to obtain the best deal for our client within the given instructions. The fast-paced event taught me to think on my feet and be accommodating to the needs of all involved. The key was to tone down the passion shown in the other events and remain calm and communicate effectively. This event was followed by a reflective task on the efficacy of our strategy.
Mooting
Mooting in front of five Judges made this my most daunting event. The hearing tested my knowledge of the case facts and the law; I had to rely on my extensive preparation to effectively respond to the myriad of judicial interventions. Being in the grand court room at Kent University added to the realism and pressure of the event, requiring my utmost composure to avoid fumbling my words. This moot taught me about the importance of directly addressing the Judges. Judges in a moot are not there as your opposition, that role is already filled. Instead, the goal is to inform the Judge of your position and what you’re asking the court to do. The conversational format of the moot reinforced this idea and gave me invaluable experience that I shall take forward into future competitions.
Networking
The day finished with a formal dinner, providing students with the opportunity to converse with the attending lawyers. We were able to ask a range of questions from their career experiences and industry tips to their take on contentious seminar discussions. They all provided invaluable insight, allowing us to learn more about what they do and how best to pursue a career that was right for us.
Mock Trial
We had the most fun after the dinner where we watched a comedic mock criminal trial – performed by Mr Thornton and Mr Richmond KC – with glasses of wine and plenty of laughs. An insight into how professionals argue in court was the perfect way to end a great day.
I would like to extend thanks to all involved from Kent University, for holding such an insightful Triathlon; my partner Simran, for all her hard work throughout the preparation and events; and the Bar Society for organising our attendance.
If the opportunity arises, I strongly encourage you to take it. It was a great way to network, shape my legal thinking, and learn more about a subject we were all so passionate about.
