Advocacy and Professional Ethics
Module summary
Module code: LAW1248
Level: 4
Credits: 15
School: Liberal Arts and Sciences
Department: Law and Criminology
Module Coordinator(s): Ayesha Riaz
Specification
Aims
The module aims to build on skills studies at Level 4 on the 2 skills modules Law in Practice and Problem Solving and the Law from Term 1. The module is designed to underpin the substantive subjects which will be taken at Level 5 and Level 6. The module has an emphasis on employability skills, particularly building confidence in public speaking and the presentation of legal concepts. It will also impart the ethical values required for a career in legal and other professional disciplines.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. Appreciate the theoretical and jurisprudential basis of law and in particular the relationship between law and morality.
2. Appreciate the ethical values required of a professional person, and of the legal profession in particular.
3. Understand what legal reasoning is, and how to use it effectively in your law courses.
4. Know what is meant by advocacy in a variety of contexts and begin to practise it.
5. Know what a moot is, and have taken part in a moot as a member of a small team.
Indicative content
The relationship between law and morality; the Hart-Devlin debate, the legal profession, professional values and ethics, advocacy, mooting, client interviewing skills, negotiating and presentation skills
Teaching and learning activity
The course will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, practical exercises and problem-solving. There will also be an element of self-directed learning under supervision, such as visiting courts, attending extra-curricular lectures, employability events etc.
Assessment
Problem Solving Essay - 100% weighting, 40% pass mark.
Learning outcomes 1 - 5.
Outline Details - The assessment will based around a client interview problem and the interplay between the relevant law and ethics. 2,500 words.
Formative Assessment - Practice sessions during seminars. Simulated sessions which include alternative dispute resolution and negotiating. There will be opportunity for students to take part in Mini-moot simulation session.