On 5 June 2025, Steven Kay KC joined a distinguished panel, chaired by Richard Salter KC, Master Treasurer of The Inner Temple, with Leonie von Braun (ICC-OTP) and Jane Davies Evans KC as co-panellists, for a well-attended session titled “Putting the Case or Challenging the Truth: Effective Cross-Examination in International Trials and Arbitrations”.
Organised by The Inner Temple’s International Committee, the event brought together an audience of around 90 Inn members, including practitioners, students, and aspiring barristers, both in person and online. Joshua Kern assisted with organisation and Jonathan Akinsanya sits together with Josh on the Inn’s International Committee.
Steven opened the session with reflections on cross-examination practice in international criminal courts and tribunals from the standpoint of a common law advocate, drawing on his experience as lead defence counsel. Leonie followed with a comparative analysis from the civil law perspective, highlighting the procedural and cultural differences that shape the examination of witnesses. Jane concluded with insights into cross-examination in international arbitration, addressing the strategic nuances and advocacy techniques employed in that forum.
Delivering a case study drawn from his cross-examination of a military expert in the Cermak case before the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), Steven explored how to maintain control and momentum when cross-examining through an interpreter, and how to probe expert evidence effectively under the scrutiny of international judges.
9BR Chambers is proud of Steven’s continued contribution to legal education and international legal discourse, and we thank The Inner Temple for hosting such a valuable and timely event.
