Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Under the supervision of qualified practitioner/teachers students will take responsibility for handling clients' legal problems at Monash-Oakleigh Legal Service or at other clinics operated by the Faculty. Students will take instructions, open files, research the law and conduct cases in the manner of a practitioner. In appropriate cases they may represent clients in court. The practice fields most commonly arising in the legal work undertaken at the clinic are criminal charges, family disputes and a wide range of civil matters.

Objectives

Students who have successfully completed this unit will have acquired the following competencies:

• the ability to interview clients, analyse facts and apply relevant legal principles;
• the ability to engender a client's confidence in the professional competence of the student;
• the ability to negotiate and utilize other applicable dispute resolution mechanisms in the client's interest;
• the ability to identify ethical issues and to determine the appropriate professional and personal resolution of such ethical issues; and
• a deeper understanding of the lawyer's role in the legal system and in the administration of justice.

Assessment

For students joining Monash Oakleigh Legal Service (MOLS) as clinic participant:

Taking instructions 25%; Follow up with supervisor 25%; Drafting and negotiation skills file management 20%; Office procedure 10%; Improvement during course 10%; General work practice skills 10%

Students are assessed continuously on their interviewing skills, analytical and research skills and written skills. Feedback is provided on virtually each piece of work completed. Formative assessment is provided mid-course in the form of a private discussion with the supervisor. At the conclusion of the course, a student's overall performance throughout the unit is assessed according to grades of Merit, Credit, Pass or Fail.

Off-campus attendance requirements

8 hours per week for 20 weeks. 4 hours at the clinic plus follow up work throughout the fortnight and regular discussion with supervisor. Average 8 hours per week throughout the course

Prerequisites

Successful completion of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (or equivalent) including the specified subjects required for admission to practice, is a pre-requisite.