A recent workshop hosted by the Legal and Legislative Liaison Services provided a vital platform for legal professionals, including MOTC’s sectoral agencies, to enhance their ability in trial practice, adjudication, and investigation. Distinguished speakers are Atty. Macapaar, Assistant Regional Prosecutor at the Regional Prosecution Office in BARMM, and Atty. Abdul Adzis Metmug, Commissioner of the 8th Division at the NLRC, held at Dusit Thani Residences, Davao City on September 20-21, 2024.
Participants held practical and interactive discussions on effective investigation techniques, courtroom etiquette, and preparing impartial investigation reports to gain insights into the critical aspects of a fair legal process for adminsitrative cases and quasi-judicial function of its sectoral agencies. The hands-on approach emphasized the importance of preparation in presenting cases with Atty. Macapaar focuses on direct examination and evidentiary submissions. Atty. Mitmug shared practical strategies for cross-examination and identifying evidentiary issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the legal intricacies that can significantly impact outcomes.
This thorough training is essential for building a competent legal framework, particularly in complex fields such as transportation law, where regulatory compliance and safety standards are paramount.
The course aims to provide courtroom skills, trial preparation, and an awareness of various persuasive methods. Participants develop essential courtroom skills, including effective communication, advocacy at each trial phase, and making or addressing motions.
Meanwhile, the ministry aimed to ensure that laws, rules, and regulations are upheld and implemented. By equipping these professionals with the necessary skills, the legal community can address complaints and cases with greater precision, enhancing accountability and improving outcomes in the sector.
Through study, observation, discussion, and mock trial exercises, attendees gain the knowledge and skills necessary for effective trial advocacy, receiving valuable critique and feedback from experienced lawyers and judges. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Ministry is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the courtroom and advocate effectively for their clients, thereby supporting the overarching goals of the transportation ministry in promoting safety and compliance.
Ultimately, the workshop was an essential stepping stone for the Ministry to refine their legal skills, contributing to a more efficient and transparent legal system that bolsters public trust and fosters a more just society.