(Gowns for all Members of the Inn)
Benchers are encouraged to bring esteemed colleagues from other fields. Student and Called Members are also welcome to bring guests.
Pre-dinner lecture delivered by Master Angus McCullough.
The Dark Side: secret proceedings and special advocates
A discussion of the development of the system of judicial proceedings held in secret, known as ‘closed material proceedings’, and the role of the special advocate in this system. We will look at their history, contexts in which used, their practical operation, and problems encountered. There will be time for questions and wider audience discussion of the issues raised.
Students and transferring lawyers need to attend the whole event including the lecture before dinner in order to be awarded a Qualifying Session. Other Members and Guests are of course most welcome to attend the lecture, or can attend the reception onwards.
Please note there are certain rules and customs that members and guests are expected to observe when attending formal dinners at the Inn.
Student/Hall Members: Guests welcome, maximum three per member
Benchers: One guest per Bencher
Benchers may not invite their spouse as a guest unless he/she is a Bencher of another Inn. Others who may not be asked as guests are members of any Inn of less than 10 years’ standing without permission of the Treasurer; members of Middle Temple in practice other than ad eundem members; students of any Inn who are of less than five years’ standing; or students who intend to practise; a practising member of, or student in, the other branch of the legal profession, or employed therein, including clerks and clients.
If you (or your guests) have any dietary requirements please ensure that you provide this information when you book tickets. If you did not do so, please inform the Inn no later than 09:00 two working days before the event.
If you (or your guests) are unsure about anything on the evening please speak to the events staff on duty.
The menu for the evening will be confirmed nearer the time.
Non-alcoholic alternatives will be provided on request.
Click here to see details of the QS Requirements and how to be credited with the QS for this session
After this session, students should be able to:
Links to the Professional Statement, wider workings of the Bar, administration of justice or a public interest matter
The QS will align with these elements of the professional statement:
This session links to the wider workings of the bar and will give an insight into the system of ‘closed material proceedings’ and the role of the special advocate in this system.
Click here to view the BSB's Professional Statement
If you have any feedback on a QS you have attended or have any suggestions for future sessions, please contact the education department on education@middletemple.org.uk
Members of the Inn can buy tickets online by clicking ‘Add to Cart’. Please note that you must log in to book (if you have not yet created a log-in please register first). Alternatively you can buy tickets from the Treasury Office by calling 020 7427 4800.
Unless the event sells out earlier, booking will close at 09:00 two working days before the event.
Cancellations:
Where we have a waiting list we will offer your ticket to someone else, so please do cancel your ticket if you are no longer able to attend.
If you have questions about accessibility at the Inn or if you would like to request support, please email Richard Frost.
The Inn is committed to improving access to all its services and encourages members to get in touch with suggestions and feedback on how we can improve. If you feel your experience using the website or attending one of our events could be improved, please email Richard. Your suggestions will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Middle Temple endeavours to make the Inn as inclusive as possible for all of its members, guests and staff.
If you have questions regarding religious practice at the Inn or at Inn events, or if you would like to request support, please email the Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator Laura Hacon. The Inn endeavours to make reasonable adjustments where possible.
The Inn is committed to improving access to all its services and encourages members to get in touch with suggestions and feedback on how we can improve. If you feel your experience using the website or attending one of our events could be improved, please email Laura. Your suggestions will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Please be aware that photography, audio and video recording may take place at our events. These may be used for promotional purposes by the Inn, including in printed publications, on our website, and on our social media accounts. If you do not wish to have your photograph taken or to have images of you used, please alert the Membership Team at the start of the event. We are unable to guarantee that you will not be included in the background of photographs that are being taken. Contact: 020 7427 6385, members@middletemple.org.uk
All personal data that the Inn stores and processes is held in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Inn’s Data Protection Policy. You can ask the Inn to stop using your images at any time, or request to see the personal data that the Inn holds on you. For more information please visit the Data Protection page: http://www.middletemple.org.uk/about-us/data-protection