Serious and Organised Crime for Prosecutors, India, 2019
Judge Malcolm Simmons
Earlier this month Judge Malcolm Simmons embarked on a series of training courses for prosecutors specialising in serious and organised crime. His presentation focused on how prosecutors present evidence before the courts in a clear and concise way, examination and cross-examination of witnesses (including children and vulnerable adults), protective measures, use of video links and anonymity orders. Of particular interest to the participants was his use of so-called ‘demonstrative evidence’. Judge Simmons explained the use of PowerPoint presentations in opening and closing statements and, occasionally, during the trial. There was a discussion on the utility of opening statements that are often poorly presented.
