Becoming a Lawyer: Success at Law School

Michael Brogan is the Director of Engagement and Senior Lecturer at the School of Law, University of Western Sydney. David Spencer is a Professor and Academic Director at Australian Catholic University (Victoria).

• 1. Why am I Studying Law? What is law all about? Careers in the law Why study law? 2. The University and Law Programs  What is law all about? Careers in the law Why study law? 3. How is Law School Different from Other Studies?  The distinctions between law school and high school or TAFE The distinctions between law school and the workplace The distinctions between law school and other university studies Deadlines Student learning responsibilities Different law schools 4. Learning and Teaching in Law School Learning and teaching approaches Different lecturers and their teaching approaches The three curricula of any course Four interrelated components of any unit of study How to approach your lecturers about your learning 5. Legal Problem-solving  The proof-making model Why do law schools use legal problems for assessment? The legal problem-solving model An example 6. Class Types Lectures Tutorials Workshops Seminars Moots Role-plays Small-group work Informal learning Student participation Taking notes The rise of educational technologies Student and lecturer interaction Missing classes 7. Managing Your Time Well Orient yourself to your units Time management: Hints, warnings, and techniques Study groups Working while studying 8. Core Concepts: The Legal system and Legal Ethics  The history of Australian law Jurisprudence Central principles and concepts International law Common terms Legal ethics 9. Sources of Law  Primary and secondary sources of law Reading cases Reading statutes 10. Researching the Law  Planning your research Resources available to law students Legislation Subordinate legislation Cases Secondary sources A warning: Beware of the internet! 11. Assignments: Types and Tips  Class participation and presentation Discussion board contributions Essays Field-trip reports Reflective journals Mooting and the viva voce examination Research papers and theses Late assignments and misadventure 12. Assignments: Referencing/Citing and Plagiarism  The importance of correct referencing What do I put in my references? Referencing or citation methods The dangers of plagiarism A sobering conclusion 13. Examinations  Preparing for exams Exam technique Types of exams 14. Gaining confidence and developing professional habits Developing courage Your law school experience begins as soon as you enrol Approaching your lecturers Frequently asked questions What to do if you feel you have been treated unfairly Counsellors and disabilities Further resources Finally