1. Independently conduct advanced legal research, demonstrating critical understanding and effectively communicating findings using appropriate legal sources and conventions for a specialist audience.
University Learning Outcome: 1-Knowledge and Understanding 3-Enquiry 6-Communication

2. Evaluate complex legal issues and produce accurate, context-sensitive legal documents and communications, demonstrating effective problem-solving and clear communication with diverse audiences.
University Learning Outcome: 5-Problem Solving 6-Communication 7-Application

3. Undertake effective client interviewing and apply a practical understanding of client care principles, communicating clearly with a non-specialist audience.
University Learning Outcome: 6-Communication 7-Application

4. Analyse legal materials to support effective decision-making, demonstrating originality and a practical understanding of how legal principles are applied in complex scenarios.
University Learning Outcome: 4-Analysis 5-Problem Solving 7-Application

Assessment 1
Legal Research Exercise
Task: Respond to a research request from a supervisor (e.g. “Advise on the enforceability of a restrictive covenant in property law”)

Length: 1,000 words

Timing: Completed over 48 hours in a controlled take-home format Skills Tested: Research accuracy, statutory interpretation, case law application, legal referencing. This assesses learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4.
Assessment 2
Legal Writing Exercise Task:
Draft a letter or email of legal advice to a client or colleague (e.g. advising a client on the likely outcome of a small claims dispute)

Length: 750 words

Timing: 90-minute in-class or completed over 48 hours in a controlled take-home format


Skills Tested: Concise communication, tailoring advice to audience, legal tone and clarity. This assesses learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4.

Assessment 3
Legal Drafting Task

Task: Draft a legal document relevant to practice (e.g. a lease clause, a will provision, a claim form, or a simple contract clause)

Length: 1–2 pages (approx. 750–1,000 words including headings and formatting)

Timing: 2 hours in-class or completed over 48 hours in a controlled take-home format

Skills Tested: Document structure, use of formal legal language, client suitability, accuracy. This assesses learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4.

Assessment 4
Oral Client Interview Simulation
Task: Live or recorded interview with an actor or peer (e.g. initial client intake or information gathering)

Length: 25 minutes

Assessment Method: Graded against a rubric (verbal fluency, professionalism, issue spotting)

Skills Tested: Active listening, question formulation, empathy, rapport-building - This assesses learning outcome 3.

Assessment 5
Case and Matter Analysis Task
Task: Analyse a short case file or client scenario and produce a memo or summary

Length: 1,000 words

Timing: 2.5 hours in-class or completed over 48 hours in a controlled take-home format

Skills Tested: File review, fact pattern extraction, legal prioritisation, planning next steps. This assesses learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4.

This assessment format mirrors the SQE2 skills-based approach and prepares students for the practical demands of qualification.

This module focuses on essential practical skills for legal professionals. It covers legal research methodologies and the use of digital tools. Legal writing is developed for various audiences, including clients, solicitors, and courts. Drafting techniques are taught for both transactional and litigation contexts. The module also examines client interviewing frameworks alongside relevant ethical considerations. Finally, case and matter analysis are practiced through practical scenarios to enhance problem-solving skills.

The written skills developed in this module are embedded within the following five core legal practice areas, reflecting the contexts in which the SRA assesses SQE2 candidates:

1. Dispute Resolution (Civil Litigation)
- Drafting witness statements, Part 36 offers, or statements of case
- Legal research on civil procedure rules or case law
- Written advice to clients on litigation strategy, risk, or settlement

2. Criminal Litigation
- Drafting pre-trial documentation, bail applications, or case summaries
- Writing letters of advice to clients facing criminal proceedings
- Research on criminal liability, evidence, or sentencing guidelines

3. Property Practice
- Drafting contract clauses, lease provisions, or completion statements
- Writing letters explaining land registration or conveyancing procedures
- Research into title issues or planning constraints

4. Wills and the Administration of Estates
- Drafting clauses in wills or letters of wishes
- Written advice on intestacy, inheritance tax, or estate distribution
- Research on probate procedure or trust obligations

5. Business Law and Practice
- Drafting partnership agreements, company resolutions, or board minutes
- Writing explanatory notes on directors' duties or shareholder rights
- Research into corporate governance, insolvency, or regulatory compliance

This module is designed to develop and assess the core legal skills required in the SQE2 component of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). The focus is on legal research, writing, drafting, client interviewing, and case and matter analysis, delivered through practical simulations and reflective exercises. It equips you with the technical competencies and ethical awareness needed for effective legal practice in both contentious and non-contentious contexts.

Teaching is delivered through interactive workshops, simulated practice exercises, peer collaboration, and guided self-study. A blended learning model supports skills development, with tutor feedback and skills coaching built into the cycle of formative and summative tasks. In terms of inclusivity, core learning materials are made available in multiple accessible formats to accommodate a range of accessibility needs and assessment methods include a variety of formats to offer students multiple ways to demonstrate an advanced understanding of legal concepts.

OUP SQE2 Preparation Skills Series
Mayson, French & Ryan, *Legal Writing and Drafting*, 2021
Westlaw and Practical Law practice materials

Practical Law, Lexis+, Westlaw, Blackboard