In order to allow as many interested defence lawyers as possible to benefit from this project, a wide range of activities is offered ranging from an eLearning course and recordings to webinars, face-to-face conferences, and a seminar bringing together different legal professions.
Introduction to EU Criminal Law – eLearning Course
This introductory eLearning course offers defence lawyers a clear and accessible entry point into European criminal law. In a concise format, it provides a practical overview of how EU criminal law functions and how it influences everyday legal practice.
The course guides participants through the key features of EU criminal law, highlighting its distinct nature and its impact on national systems. It combines core concepts with practical insights, helping participants better understand the framework within which they operate.
Structured in short modules, the course allows for flexible, self-paced learning and can easily be integrated into a busy schedule. It is available online and open to all interested participants.
European Conferences on European Criminal Justice for Defence Lawyers
- Face-to-face
- 1.5 days
- Barcelona & Vilnius & Trier
- English
This series of face-to-face conferences brings together defence lawyers from across the EU to explore key developments in European criminal justice. Through a combination of presentations and interactive workshops, participants will engage with topics such as digitalisation in criminal justice, the application of legal privilege in criminal matters, and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office from the perspective of the defence.
Each conference places a strong emphasis on exchange and networking, offering participants the opportunity to share experiences and best practices. Depending on the topic, round table discussions may include judges and prosecutors to provide different perspectives on the role of defence counsel. All conferences are held in English, with attention to gender balance among speakers and chairs.
The three conferences will take place in Barcelona, Vilnius and Trier in October 2026, March 2027 and October 2027. This schedule ensures balanced geographical coverage and allows time to gather participant feedback and continuously refine the training programme.
Webinars on European Criminal Justice for Defence Lawyers
- Online
- 3 hours
- English
This series of short webinars offers defence lawyers a flexible and accessible way to stay up to date with developments in European criminal justice. Designed to fit into busy schedules, the sessions provide practical insights and learning opportunities that can be easily integrated into daily practice.
Across seven webinars, participants can deepen their understanding of current issues in a concise and focused format. Background materials, including legal sources and relevant case law, are provided in advance to support preparation and maximise the benefit of each session.
The webinars take place in the late afternoon between July 2026 and January 2028 and are held in English.
Recordings
Selected lectures and key presentations from the webinars will be made publicly available on the project website, allowing interested participants to revisit and benefit from the training content at any time.
Seminar on the Role of the CJEU for Defence Lawyers
- Face-to-face
- 2.5 days
- Trier & Luxembourg
- English
This seminar offers defence lawyers a practical introduction to the role of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in European criminal law. Combining expert input with hands-on learning, it provides participants with the opportunity to better understand how CJEU case law shapes daily legal practice and how to engage with it effectively.
The programme blends presentations with small-group workshops, allowing participants to build practical skills, in particular in relation to the preliminary ruling procedure. A visit to the Court of Justice in Luxembourg, including attendance at a hearing, offers valuable insight into the Court’s work and functioning.
The seminar takes place in Trier, at ERA’s premises, and in Luxembourg in December 2027.
