Government lawyers from across Samoa’s public service are taking part in a week-long workshop aimed at strengthening their litigation, courtroom advocacy and case preparation skills.
The Litigation and Advocacy Workshop opened in Apia on Monday, 27 July, and will continue until 31 July 2026.
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt delivered the keynote address at the official opening, highlighting the Government’s commitment to improving the capacity, professionalism and confidence of lawyers serving in the public sector.
The workshop forms part of the Office of the Attorney General’s two-year capacity-building programme for Government lawyers.
Training will cover legal analysis, case preparation, prosecution, litigation strategy, courtroom advocacy, ethical decision-making and the handling of matters involving the public interest.
The Office of the Attorney General said public sector lawyers play an important role in advising Government, supporting decision-making, representing the public interest and contributing to the administration of justice.
The workshop is being facilitated by Aaron Perkins KC, Kieran Raftery KC and Richard Marchant KC, who have experience in complex litigation and appellate advocacy.
The three King’s Counsel are providing their professional services on a pro bono basis, with no fees charged for their contribution to the training.
The programme also reflects cooperation between Samoa and New Zealand in supporting professional development and strengthening Samoa’s legal institutions.
The closing event at the end of the workshop will be co-funded by the New Zealand High Commission.
The Office of the Attorney General said the training is expected to improve the consistency and quality of legal services provided across Government and help develop ethical, skilled and confident public sector lawyers.
This article is based on information released by the Office of the Attorney General.
