The module aims to facilitate an understanding of the way in which practice management issues impinge on the legal community and in particular to introduce and appraise the importance of quality issues in legal practice to assist in identification of a topic for dissertation stage. The module will address:

- Pressing current issues
- Quality Assurance and Accreditation
- Marketing and client care
- Professional requirements and training
- IT Strategies
- Funding and costs
- Managing the Workforce
- Association with others
- Financial Planning and Management
- Where next?

A Dissertation Proposal addressing a contemporary practice issue weighted at 25%. Assesses Learning Outcomes 1 and 7.
An Assignment (3500 words) on legal practice issues - 75%. Assesses Learning Outcomes 1 to 7.

Assessment Criteria

Fail
Exhibits some knowledge but little understanding, limited evidence of research or appropriate reading. Primarily descriptive and/or contains irrelevant material. Poor spelling or other grammatical errors.

Pass
Exhibits knowledge and a degree of understanding but contains little in the way of critical analysis. Some evidence of research or appropriate reading, lacking in structure but contains relevant material. Satisfactory referencing, citation and bibliography.

Merit
Illustrates good knowledge, application and comprehension. Material wholly relevant to the question. Good presentational skills, well structured arguments. Evidence of depth and breadth of research as well as a degree of independent judgement. Demonstrates a clear ability to analyse, think critically and synthesise ideas.

Distinction
Illustrates extensive reading and research appropriate to the question. Illustrates a clear understanding of the interrelationship of concepts, ideas, theories and arguments, contains strong critical and analytical of material using a wide variety of sources. A degree of originality. Excellently presented in terms of structure, style and referencing.

Not set texts

This module is strongly student centred. Delivery is by way of 10 lectures and/or workshops involving issues of substantive and prcedural law, management issues, and associated skills. In addition, students undertake research and reflection aimed at improving academic and practical legal research skills and involving practical, conceptual and strategic issues.

Students have access to online materials and tutor support but need to be disciplined in their approach to study.

Well stocked library
Computer facilities with Internet access

Must have LPC, BVC or equivalent or be undertaking LPC at Staffordshire University