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Critical Role of Expert Evidence: The Post Office Horizon Scandal
Featuring co-presenter of the Fifth Court Podcast - Mark Tottenham BL.
50
Online
1 General CPD hour
On-Demand Webinar
About this course
Join us for an in-depth, expert-led webinar presented by Mark Tottenham BL, who explored the Horizon IT scandal and its implications, focusing on the role of expert witnesses in the judicial system. It covered various aspects of expert witness duties, legal failures, and how this case highlighted broader concerns about miscarriages of justice, particularly in relation to the use of expert evidence in both civil and criminal cases.
Discover how flawed expert witness testimony contributed to the wrongful convictions of hundreds of innocent people and learn what this case reveals about the vital role of expert evidence in both civil and criminal justice systems.
Why choose this course
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Expert Witness Duties: Gain a clear understanding of the role expert witnesses play in court proceedings and the ethical standards they must uphold, regardless of the case. Learn how the misuse of expert testimony contributed to the Horizon scandal and the lessons to be drawn from it.
The Impact of Flawed Expert Evidence: The Horizon cases demonstrate the catastrophic impact that biased or inaccurate expert evidence can have, particularly in criminal trials. This webinar will provide practical strategies for legal professionals to ensure the reliability and impartiality of expert testimony.
Case Study – Horizon Scandal: Explore the landmark legal rulings, including the group litigation brought by sub-postmasters and the Hamilton appeal, which set important precedents for expert evidence and prosecution duties.
Practical Tips for Legal Professionals: From selecting and instructing expert witnesses to ensuring they comply with jurisdictional standards; this webinar will offer actionable advice for lawyers working with experts in any field.
Course syllabus
The Post Office Horizon IT scandal is now widely recognised as one of the most devastating miscarriages of justice in UK history. Over 700 sub-postmasters were wrongfully prosecuted for theft, fraud, and false accounting due to faulty evidence derived from the Horizon IT system. This case brought to light critical failings in the role of expert witnesses and has since reshaped how the courts view expert testimony.
Our webinar will guide you through the legal complexities of expert evidence, using the Horizon cases as a cautionary example. Led by a highly experienced legal professional, this session will explore:
- The responsibilities and duties of expert witnesses in both civil and criminal cases.
- The systemic failures that allowed flawed testimony to contribute to wrongful convictions.
- Key rulings and judgments that arose from the case, including the Hamilton appeal.
- The broader implications for legal professionals, prosecutors, and expert witnesses in all jurisdictions.
Why Attend?
In today’s legal landscape, the accuracy and impartiality of expert evidence are more critical than ever. This webinar offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the responsibilities that expert witnesses and legal teams bear. Whether you’re a seasoned legal professional or new to the field, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate complex cases involving expert testimony, safeguarding against potential miscarriages of justice.
Who should attend
Legal practitioners working with or instructing expert witnesses.
Prosecutors and defence lawyers in criminal litigation.
Civil litigators seeking insight into expert evidence standards.
Academics studying criminal law, civil procedure, or legal ethics.
Presented by – Mark Tottenham
Co-presenter of the Fifth Court Podcast. Barrister, Qualified Mediator (IPMO), and Trust and Estate Practitioner (STEP)
Mark Tottenham is a barrister, in practice for over 20 years. He is a Qualified Mediator, accredited by the Irish Professional Mediator's Association, and a Trust and Estate Practitioner.
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