LAW-30102 - Module Specification
School of Law
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2021/22

This is a new module designed to give students an insight into interesting areas of legal practice. It will cover some areas of extra curricular competitions but not replace them.
A practical introduction to skills that are essential for lawyers. The ability to interview effectively and then to present a legal argument formally on behalf of a client. Students will be given an introduction to client interviewing, civil mediation and advocacy. They will learn the theory behind the skills and then practise the skills in interactive workshops using problem based scenarios.
It will be taught by way of interactive lectures requiring participation and in practical two hour workshops. Students will be assessed by way of a reflective e-portfolio.

To enable students to develop a wide variety of skills relevant to professional legal practice in a law firm or barristers chambers;
To encourage recognition and development of communication skills and enhance their critical analysis capabilities whilst also developing oral and written presentation skills;
Introduce and develop skills of client interviewing, advocacy and mediation;
Introduce concepts of professional conduct rules which pervade legal practice and the professional obligations which are on every lawyer whether a barrister, solicitor or paralegal;
To enhance graduate employability.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate the ability to conduct a client interview by putting their client at ease, carefully questioning and providing preliminary legal advice: 1
Analyse the issues both practical and legal in a problem scenario and advise on the best method of resolving the problem: 1
Articulate the benefits of mediation and the factors which affect how successful a mediation may be: 1
Articulate the theory behind the different methods of advocacy in a court room setting: 1
Identify and explain professional conduct issues which arise and act appropriately to maintain professional conduct standards: 1
Present an effective legal submission in a formal court room setting: 1

Study hours

6 x 2 hour interactive lectures
8 x 2 hour workshops where students will demonstrate the skills in a practical context.
122 self directed research, reflection on performances and preparation of practical classroom activities.

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment