Northern Circuiteers invited to attend European Circuit Conference in Brussels

European Circuit Annual Conference 2008

The European Circuit Leader, Gerard McDermott QC welcomes Northern Circuiteers

I am delighted to take this opportunity of extending our warmest invitation to Northern Circuiteers to join us at this year’s European Circuit Annual Conference in Brussels from 16th to 18th October 2008.

Our Annual Conference has become the highlight of the Circuit year and I am especially pleased that, as with last year, the list of speakers includes our own Mr Justice Ryder and several from the American Counsel Association, as well as advocates from the UK and Europe. There is something to interest Circuiteers across the practice areas, especially those of you whose practice involves EU or international elements. As usual, the Conference is accredited by the Bar Standards Board for CPD (7 hours tbc).  This year’s theme is “European & International Practice: Contrasts & Comparisons from Regional Bars” and our Conference schedule includes:

Thursday 16th October

* A Welcome Drinks Reception  

Friday 17th October
* A visit to the “Palais de Justice”

* Afternoon Conference sessions on: -          Keynote speech  - Eleanor Sharpston QC, Advocate General, European Court of Justice-          Private Law Remedies in Competition Law and Class Actions -          Cross Border Remedies in Family Law            

* Conference Dinner on Friday evening at the Scheltema Restaurant, renowned for its seafood  

Saturday 18th October
* Morning Conference sessions on: -          Public Affairs as Part of a Litigation Strategy-          Cross Border Aspects of Criminal Law: Remedies; Arrest Warrants; Extradition in Financial Services & Corporate Crime Cases

* And following the highly enjoyable trip to a Luxembourg vineyard last year, a visit to Bruges is also planned for Saturday.   

We relish the opportunity that our Annual Conference provides to discuss law and practice with fellow advocates from across the different jurisdictions and more especially to share our ideas, experiences and opportunities in a relaxed, informal setting.

I very much look forward to welcoming a strong contingent from the Northern Circuit to Brussels.

Further details including a registration form are available from the European Circuit website.