CBA Spring Conference 2026
Saturday 18th April 2026
IET London, Savoy Place
Criminal Justice at a Crossroads
CBA Spring Conference 2026
The Criminal Bar Association is pleased to host its 2026 Spring Conference, Criminal Justice at a Crossroads, bringing together senior judges, leading practitioners and policymakers to examine the key developments shaping the criminal justice system.
At a time of continuing pressure on the courts, procedural reform and evolving sentencing policy, the conference will explore the challenges and future direction of criminal justice. The programme will address developments in criminal procedure, sentencing reform, professional ethics, advocacy and the wider sustainability of practice at the Criminal Bar.
Our Draft Programme
| Time | Topic | Speaker |
| 08.30 – 09.00 | Registration and Breakfast | |
| 09.00 – 09.15 | Introduction and Opening Remarks | Paul Jarvis KC |
| 09.15 – 09.30 | Keynote Address | Lady Justice May |
| 09.30 – 10.15 | The Independent Review of the Criminal Courts | Rt Hon Sir Brian Leveson |
| 10.15 – 11.00 | Updating the Criminal Procedure Rules | Paul Jarvis KC |
| 11.00 – 11.30 | Coffee Break | |
| 11.30 – 11.45 | The Service Prosecuting Authority | Mary Cowe |
| 11.45 – 12.30 | Resilience and Sustainability at the Criminal Bar | Valerie Charbit & Nicola Shannon KC |
| 12.30 – 13.15 | Getting the Witness’s Best Evidence | Dr Samantha Fairclough |
| 13.15 – 14.15 | Lunch | |
| 14.15 – 15.00 | Professional Ethics Under Strain | Danny Robinson KC |
| 15.00 – 15.45 | Sentencing Reform and the Sentencing Act 2026 | Lyndon Harris |
| 15.45 | Close |
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 18th April 2026
Time: 08.30hrs – 15.45hrs
Venue: IET London, Savoy Place
Format: In-person conference
Breakfast, coffee and lunch will be provided.
Costs
Silk £135.00 +7 Years £95.00 -7 Years £95.00 Pupil £45.00 Non Member £250.00