Course overview
This compulsory course is one of two award-winning capstone courses that prepare our students for the Graduate Diploma In Legal Practice (taught at AOF level 9) and their professional life. In this course students must demonstrate a clear and coherent exposition of knowledge of law, legal practice and dispute resolution and be able to communicate these effectively in complex situations to a range of audiences with varying needs. This course requires the review, analysis, consolidation and synthesis of knowledge gained in previous courses throughout their degree to propose solutions for complex legal problems.
Course learning outcomes
- Apply the theories that underpin dispute resolution in society, social and psychological; select appropriate Dispute Resolution models for specific disputes; practice the skills of dispute resolution in simulated mediation and negotiation exercises.
- Locate, critique and apply legislation, case law and secondary sources to resolve complex legal problems. Critically review different dispute resolution options within and outside the civil court system.
- Critically analyse and apply legislation, rules and cases to generate solutions and to critique dispute resolution law from the perspectives of fairness, accessibility and effectiveness of the civil justice system, and access to justice
- Create and sustain concise and cohesive written and oral arguments with a focus on client advice, courtroom documents and advocacy. Work effectively as part of a team undertaking complex legal work in the context of a mock civil dispute.
- Apply ethical principles governing civil legal practice, articulate the professional obligations of lawyers relevant to dispute resolution, and critique dispute resolution laws from a range of perspectives.
- Reflect on their capacity to operate effectively individually and as a member of a team. Utilise feedback and constructive self-evaluation to inform improvement and personal development.