Ethics, Justice, and the Legal Profession

RATIONALE
This module introduces students to the wider legal profession, with a focus on ethics and justice. Students will learn about different legal careers and associated employability discussions. This foundational knowledge will then form the basis for learning the specific rules relating to ethics.  This module will allow students to examine the moral and ethical dimensions of law and the practice of law in a range of contexts. Students examine specific sets of regulation set by professional bodies namely the Bar Standards Board and the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Such regulations and the role of lawyers in society are considered in the light of the complex duty-relationships between lawyers, clients, courts, and the public. To further explore these relationships, students will experience an extended mock trial and will spend time reflecting on law in society and access to justice.  Students will gain practical as well as theoretical knowledge and experience which will begin their journey towards post-graduation success. This module also introduces co-production to best meet students’ learning needs.     

AIMS
Students will: 
●    Understand the broad range of careers in the legal profession
●    Identify their own career aspirations and plan accordingly
●    Explore the ethical rules, values, and principles in the legal profession
●    Situate the legal profession in a wider social context
●    Appreciate the role of the legal professional in access to justice
●    Co-produce relevant content

LEARNING OUTCOMES
On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to:
1.    Show awareness of different career options in the legal profession
2.    Outline their own current or potential career aspirations and write a career plan to achieve these
3.    Apply appropriate ethical rules to real life situations
4.    Reflect on the role of the legal profession in a wider social context
5.    Discuss the role of legal professionals in access to justice