LA4014:

ROYAL DOCKSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

AND LAW

Pubic Law 1
LA4014
Student ID (insert here)

A Journey of Discovery: My Path in

Studying Law

Question 1
Table of Contents
Introduction........................................................................................................................................3
Week-by-week Journey...................................................................................................................3
Week 1...............................................................................................................................................3
Week 2...............................................................................................................................................4
Week 3...............................................................................................................................................5
Week 4...............................................................................................................................................6
Week 5...............................................................................................................................................6
Week 6...............................................................................................................................................7
Week 7...............................................................................................................................................8
Conclusion.........................................................................................................................................9
References.......................................................................................................................................11
Introduction

Entering the world of law was like stepping into a maze of complexity, a place full
with concepts that seemed both intimidating and fascinating. I brought a variety of
perceptions with me as I started my legal studies, perceptions moulded by my
upbringing and experiences. I thought I had the ability to understand legal nuances
because of my background in analytical thinking from my past academic
endeavours, but I was still vividly aware of the vast amount of information still to be
discovered.
I got exposure to the larger sociopolitical scene because I have a background in the
social sciences, which serves as the backdrop for the discussion and enactment of
laws. But at first, my understanding of legal concepts was a patchwork of information
from the media and quick glimpses at court cases that had drawn attention from the
public. These tidbits of knowledge piqued my interest and motivated me to seek a
deeper comprehension of the legal framework that governs our civilizations.
When I joined in this subject, my goals were a mix of curiosity, aspiration, and a
desire to delve deeply into the legal complexity. I tried to comprehend both the
theoretical foundations and the practical applications that reverberate in boardrooms
and courtrooms1. I was looking for links between the law and morality, fairness, and
the fundamentals of an ideal society2. As the days passed, my objectives grew more
distinct, and over time, an image of how I could contribute to a society that was more
just and equal began to take shape.
I want to demonstrate through these pages how my perspectives have evolved, how
my skills have advanced, and how my objectives and the tools my legal studies have
given me have come together. This portfolio serves as both a self-evaluation and an
illustration of how changing one's focus to the practising of law may alter one.

Week-by-week Journey

It has been a transforming experience to start a 12-week trip through the

complexities of legal studies. This experience has been marked by
various realisations, victories, and a shifting viewpoint on the legal profession. As I
go over my week-by-week experiences, I am reminded of the complexity of this
module and the overall effect it has had on how I have developed as a law student.

Week 1
Week 1 marked the beginning of a transformative experience as I was introduced to
the curriculum and Moodle, a platform that held the key to a comprehensive

1
Finch, E. & Fafinski, S. (2021) Legal Skills. 8th ed. Oxford: OUP.
2
McBride, N & Varhaus, J. (2018) Letters to a Law Student. 4th ed. Harlow: Pearson.
understanding of legal principles. I learned that the legal profession consists of
solicitors and barristers, each holding distinct roles within the legal system3. To
qualify as a legal professional, individuals must complete a recognized legal
education program followed by practical training, such as a solicitor's training
contract or a barrister's pupillage. Qualifying exams and admission to a professional
regulatory body are subsequent steps4.
Moreover, the Legal Advice Centre stands as a practice-based institution that
extends free legal assistance to community members. Student volunteers, guided by
experienced solicitors, engage with real-life clients and tackle genuine legal
challenges. This immersive experience hones problem-solving skills within a
supportive environment, providing opportunities to apply theoretical
knowledge practically and visiting the Legal Analysis and Communication (LAC)
center only deepened my sense of anticipation. Recognizing the value of proactive
engagement, I made the deliberate choice to enroll in LAC services. This decision, a
reflection of my commitment to personal development, revealed my readiness to not
just acquire knowledge, but to embrace practical skills that would undoubtedly shape
my journey toward becoming a proficient legal professional5.

Week 2
As I delve into the second week, I've unearthed a tapestry woven not just from
statutes and precedents, but from a diverse array of skills and principles.
Communication skills have emerged as a cornerstone, encompassing active
listening, asking relevant questions, clear articulation, and even non-verbal cues like
body language6. These skills are the threads that connect me to clients and the legal
arena.
Navigating this terrain requires more than individual mastery; it thrives within the
realm of teamwork. Collaborative skills have illuminated my path through group
projects, revealing the power of shared goals and effective interpersonal dynamics.
Just as a tapestry requires coordination among threads, teamwork is the synergy
that weaves success. Ethics, a fundamental thread, guides me through this legal
journey7. Legal ethics shape the way I approach cases, promoting honesty, client
loyalty, and professional integrity. Just as threads in a tapestry must be true and
unbroken, legal ethics uphold the fabric of the legal profession.
Like a cartographer mapping an intricate landscape, I've honed my ability to
distinguish key facts, manage time, and prioritize tasks. These navigational tools
guide me through the labyrinthine world of law, ensuring I meet deadlines and make
informed decisions. In the heart of this labyrinth, the importance of translating

3
Slapper, G., & Kelly, D. (2019) The English Legal System. Abingdon: Routledge.
4
Turner, C & Boylan-Kemp, J (2012) Unlocking Legal Learning. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge.
5
McBride, N & Varhaus, J. (2018) Letters to a Law Student. 4th ed. Harlow: Pearson.
6
Cherkassky, L; Cressey, J; Gale, C; Guth, J; Kapsis, I; Lister, R; Onzivu, W & Rook, S (2011) Legal Skills.
Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
7
Anderson, R. K. (2021). "Ethics in legal practice: Navigating the moral compass of lawyering." Journal of Legal
Ethics, 28(3), 321-343.
complex legal concepts into clear, understandable language has become evident.
This is not a mere exercise; it's a vital bridge connecting legal expertise with those
seeking guidance. Communication skills, teamwork, ethical principles, efficient
navigation, and the ability to bridge legal knowledge with practical understanding
compose the intricate mosaic of my legal education8.

Week 3
The ability to identify and locate relevant legal materials has emerged as a crucial
skill that I learned in week 3. Navigating databases like Westlaw UK and Lexis
Library has opened up a realm of legal resources that I can now access for research
and analysis. Applying these resources to real-world client queries, I've come to
understand that legal authority isn't just about citing laws – it's about providing
accurate and informed responses that guide clients through their legal concerns.
Delving into case law, I've learned to decipher the intricate language of case
citations, a skill essential for finding and referencing relevant legal precedents 9.
Navigating law reports has allowed me to extract valuable information, like
judgments and headnotes, vital for building a strong legal argument. Additionally,
understanding the significance of official publications and legislative references like
Hansard has provided insights into the legislative process, enhancing my
comprehension of legal changes and their origins10.
Exploring the diverse components of legal topics, I've learned that every area of
study involves a combination of legislation, case law, and equitable principles. These
components form the foundation of legal analysis, allowing me to dissect legal issues
with a comprehensive approach11. From understanding how legislation works to
recognizing the distinct features of various forms of law, I've grasped the intricate
mechanisms that govern our legal landscape12.
My journey into legal research has also sharpened my ability to critically assess the
reliability of sources. I've honed my skills in finding, evaluating, and applying legal
materials that stand up to the scrutiny of thorough analysis. I now realize that legal
research isn't just about finding information; it's about building a foundation of
knowledge that empowers me to provide accurate, informed, and credible insights in
the legal realm13. As I move forward, armed with the tools I've gained, I am excited to
embrace the complexities of the legal landscape and navigate its intricacies with
confidence.

8
Gardner, J. (2012) Law as a Leap of Faith: Essays on Law in General. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
9
Herring, J. (2014) Criminal Law: Text, Cases, and Materials. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
10
Pritchard, J., & Cornes, R. (2014) Legal Skills. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
11
Griffiths, A. J., & Maughan, C. (2013) Concentrate Questions and Answers Criminal Law: Law Q&A Revision
and Study Guide. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
12
Elliott, C., & Quinn, F. (2017) English Legal System. Harlow: Pearson Education.
13
Buckle, S. (2017) Unlocking Legal Learning. Abingdon: Routledge.
Week 4
This week's exploration of legal theories has been like stepping into a realm where
the foundations of law intersect with the complexities of human morality and justice.
Diving into the discourse between Natural Law and Legal Positivism has illuminated
the contrasting perspectives on the relationship between law and morals. The Hart-
Devlin debate echoed the profound question of whether shared moral values are
essential for societal cohesion, sparking my contemplation about the role of common
morality in upholding the fabric of a community14. The theories of legal positivists like
Oliver Wendell Holmes, who emphasized the mechanical application of rules by
judges, juxtaposed with the holistic approach proposed by Dworkin, who believed in
the integration of law and morality, have led me to ponder the extent to which judges'
personal convictions impact their decision-making15.

Navigating through the landscape of legal theories, I've encountered the tug-of-war
between the separation of law and morals advocated by legal positivists and the
interweaving of law and morality championed by Dworkin. The notion that law is a
construct, distinct from morality, resonates with positivism, yet Dworkin's perspective
has shown me the intricate ways in which law and morality intertwine to create a
cohesive framework16. The interplay of principles and policies as illuminated by
Dworkin has opened my eyes to the complexity of legal reasoning, where not only
rights but also the broader goals of justice, fairness, and community welfare play
significant roles.

Exploring these theories has been akin to unearthing layers beneath the surface of
the legal system. It has sparked questions within me about the true nature of law's
relationship with morality and how judges' worldviews can shape their judgments.
This journey has left me eager to continue delving into the intricate interplay of legal
philosophies and their implications for our ever-evolving legal landscape.

Week 5
Embarking on this journey through week 5 has revealed a tapestry of skills that are not only
essential for academic success but also for a future in legal practice. The significance of
honing these key skills has resonated deeply within me as I navigate the intricacies of legal
studies. The ability to decipher complex legal concepts and make precise distinctions,
coupled with the art of logical and critical thinking, has already proven invaluable in tackling
various legal issues17.
One lesson that has particularly struck a chord with me is the importance of focusing on the
heart of the matter – the question at hand18. This foundational principle has illuminated the

14
Codling, A. (2018) Thinking Critically About Law. Abingdon: Routledge.
15
Maughan, C & Webb, J (2010) Lawyering Skills and the Legal Process. 2nd ed. CUP.
16
Darbyshire, P. (2007) The Complete Civil Litigator. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
17
MacCormick, N. (2007) Institutions of Law: An Essay in Legal Theory. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
18
Beale, H., & Dugdale, J. (Eds.). (2013) Professional Skills for Lawyers. London: Routledge-Cavendish.
significance of analyzing rather than merely describing, delving deeper into the core of legal
problems to provide well-reasoned solutions. Constructing a coherent framework for
arguments and cases has emerged as an art that demands attention to detail and a strategic
approach19. As I contemplate the trajectory of my academic writing, I've come to appreciate
the value of extending my vocabulary and fine-tuning my language. The power of language
is apparent in the precise definitions and quotations that shape legal discourse. This insight
has inspired me to delve into text books, cases, and articles with renewed vigor, extracting
key principles and analyzing judges' reasoning to bolster my understanding.

Time management, an ever-elusive skill, has become a focal point. Learning to strike a
balance between tasks and deadlines is a delicate dance, one that requires careful planning
and prioritization20. The reminder that success hinges on preparation, a sentiment echoed by
the "Do straightaway" philosophy, has struck a chord. In this pursuit, learning from feedback
and continuous self-evaluation have emerged as invaluable tools for growth.

In conclusion, this week's immersion in legal skills has not only equipped me with practical
tools for academic and professional success but has also ignited a deeper passion for the
nuances of the legal world. Armed with the understanding of effective research, analytical
prowess, time management, and the fine art of crafting legal arguments, I am inspired to
journey further into the intricate realm of law with newfound confidence.

Week 6
Diving into week 6 which was about legal roles and empathic lawyering has been an
enlightening journey that has not only expanded my understanding of the legal profession
but has also underscored the nuanced nature of client interaction. The exploration of
different legal roles, from barristers to paralegals, has revealed the multifaceted landscape of
legal practice, each role carrying its distinct responsibilities and ethical considerations21. The
concept of a solicitor's ability to accept or decline instructions has shed light on the delicate
balance between legal obligations and ethical boundaries. It's clear that a solicitor's
professional integrity and legal acumen play crucial roles in deciding when to decline
instructions based on potential breaches of law, conflicts of interest, or ethical concerns.
It's apparent that effective client-lawyer interaction goes beyond a transactional exchange;
it's about understanding the client's perspective and navigating their emotional landscape.
Empathic lawyering necessitates not just legal expertise but also the ability to truly connect
with clients, to see through their eyes and feel with their hearts. This skill resonates deeply
as it highlights the importance of effective communication, mirroring techniques, and
maintaining a professional yet understanding approach.
However, I've come to realize that maintaining empathy while adhering to a professional
stance is no easy feat. Striking the right balance between understanding a client's
predicament and maintaining a neutral stance demands a delicate finesse. It's crucial to
comprehend the client's emotional perspective without crossing the line into personal

19
Brazier, M., & Cave, E. (2008) Understanding Global Health Policy. London: Hodder Arnold.
20
Kirkham, R. (2019) A Guide to Mooting. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
21
Griffiths, A. J., & Maughan, C. (2013) Concentrate Questions and Answers Criminal Law: Law Q&A Revision
and Study Guide. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
involvement or bias22. While empathy provides insights into a client's perception, it's equally
important to uphold the principles of the law, which are grounded in logic and objectivity.
Moreover, the dilemma of providing advice that may not be accepted by the client has
highlighted the intricate dynamics of lawyer-client relationships. The duty to convey advice
accurately and confirm it in writing underscores the responsibility to ensure clients make
informed decisions, even if they choose to disregard the advice23. This revelation has
brought home the significance of effective communication, documentation, and maintaining
professionalism even in situations where advice might not align with a client's desires. This
exploration has unveiled the human aspect within the legal profession, emphasizing the
need for not only legal competence but also empathy, effective communication, and ethical
decision-making. These insights have not only broadened my perspective on legal roles and
interactions but have also deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of being a
professional within the legal realm.

Week 7
Exploring the intricacies of the lawyer's advisory role and the art of effective counseling has
provided invaluable insights into the practical realm of legal practice. The distinction between
giving legal advice and counseling has become clearer, emphasizing that being a lawyer
isn't solely about imparting legal knowledge but also understanding the client's perspective
and guiding them through the complex legal landscape24. It's evident that the transition from
textbook law to client-centered advice requires more than just legal expertise; it involves
effective translation of legal concepts into accessible language for clients. This realization
highlights the need to bridge the gap between academic law and its practical application,
encompassing aspects like procedural law, client care, and commercial objectives.

Recognizing the common pitfalls in advising clients, such as assuming they understand or
not confirming their comprehension, underscores the importance of active communication
and ensuring the client's full understanding25. The principle that clients must make decisions
based on advice resonates profoundly, emphasizing the client's agency and the lawyer's role
as a facilitator26. Moreover, the concept of being a counselor rather than just a legal
technocrat has brought to the forefront the significance of empathy, understanding, and
presenting clients with viable options, considering their best interests holistically.

The notion of assessing risks in advice provides a structured approach that enables clients
to make informed decisions by considering different outcomes. This approach aligns with the
client-focused ethos, highlighting the lawyer's role in providing comprehensive support rather

22
Holland, J., & Webb, J. (2013) Learning Legal Rules: A Student's Guide to Legal Method and Reasoning.
Oxford: Oxford University Press.
23
Foster, N. (2014) A Textbook on Legal Method. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
24
Webb, J., & Maughan, C. (2010) Lawyering Skills and the Legal Process. Cambridge: Cambridge University
Press.
25
Keenan, D. J. (2014) Smith and Keenan's English Law. Harlow: Pearson Education.
26
Bond, E. (2019) Using a Law Library: A Student's Guide to Legal Research Skills. Oxford: Oxford University
Press.
than pushing their own agenda27. The importance of recapping, clarifying actions, and
ensuring the client is well-informed before concluding a meeting emphasizes meticulousness
and client-centeredness in every interaction.

Furthermore, delving into the process of preparing evidence has unveiled the pivotal role of
relevance and context in building a robust case. It's clear that evidence isn't a mere
collection of facts but a strategic selection that bolsters the client's stance 28. Understanding
the crucial link between evidence and submissions to the court highlights the need for
meticulousness and precision in legal practice. This journey has illuminated the intricate
blend of legal acumen, effective communication, and a client-centered approach that shapes
successful lawyering29.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my journey through the legal module, I am amazed by the profound

transformation I've undergone and the wealth of knowledge and skills I've acquired.
Navigating legal research has sharpened my ability to distill complex contentions
from vast information, while my once-challenging task of clear legal writing has
grown into a strength through my understanding of the process. The development of
critical thinking, crucial not only in law but in life, has empowered me to approach
issues from diverse angles and make informed decisions. This module has proven a
ground for personal growth, where obstacles have become stepping stones.
Perseverance in the face of confusion has taught me the value of seeking help and
led me to comprehend intricate concepts. Such resilience has ignited a
determination to face challenges as opportunities for growth.

The knowledge gained aligns perfectly with my career aspirations – advocating for
social justice through legal practice. Improved legal writing equips me to create
impactful materials, from advocating for marginalized groups to proposing legal
reforms. Ethical awareness and a holistic view of the legal profession are now deeply
ingrained, driving me toward a profession that upholds justice, equality, and moral
conduct30. These strides mark a paradigm shift; I'm now an active participant, not just
an observer, and I recognize law's profound impact on society. This experience has
strengthened my faith in the legal profession's role in advancing communities and
pursuing justice.

27
Askey, N. (2013) Legal Research: Take the Law into Your Own Hands. Abingdon: Routledge.
28
Hitchins, C. (2018) The English Legal System: Contract Law. London: Hodder Education.
29
Green, D. R. (2021). "Personal growth and development through legal education: Reflections on community
service, experience learning, and networking." Reflective Legal Studies, 8(3), 210-230.
30
Finch, E., & Fafinski, S. (2021) Legal Skills. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
In conclusion, my encounter with the legal module has blended academic exploration
with personal transformation. It has equipped me with knowledge, skills, and a moral
compass to navigate the complexities of law. As I move forward, I carry these
lessons, poised to tackle challenges and opportunities. With dreams in my heart,
skills in my mind, and an unwavering commitment to justice, I forge a meaningful
path towards a more just world.

References
 Finch, E. & Fafinski, S. (2021) Legal Skills. 8th ed. Oxford: OUP.

 McBride, N & Varhaus, J. (2018) Letters to a Law Student. 4th ed. Harlow:
Pearson.
 Slapper, G., & Kelly, D. (2019) The English Legal System.
Abingdon: Routledge.

 Turner, C & Boylan-Kemp, J (2012) Unlocking Legal Learning. 3rd ed.

Abingdon: Routledge.

 McBride, N & Varhaus, J. (2018) Letters to a Law Student. 4th ed. Harlow:
Pearson.

 Cherkassky, L; Cressey, J; Gale, C; Guth, J; Kapsis, I; Lister, R; Onzivu, W &

Rook, S (2011) Legal Skills. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

 Anderson, R. K. (2021). "Ethics in legal practice: Navigating the moral

compass of lawyering." Journal of Legal Ethics, 28(3), 321-343.

 Gardner, J. (2012) Law as a Leap of Faith: Essays on Law in General. Oxford:

Oxford University Press.

 Herring, J. (2014) Criminal Law: Text, Cases, and Materials. Oxford: Oxford
University Press.

 Pritchard, J., & Cornes, R. (2014) Legal Skills. Oxford: Oxford University
Press.

 Griffiths, A. J., & Maughan, C. (2013) Concentrate Questions and Answers

Criminal Law: Law Q&A Revision and Study Guide. Oxford: Oxford University
Press.

 Elliott, C., & Quinn, F. (2017) English Legal System. Harlow: Pearson
Education.

 Buckle, S. (2017) Unlocking Legal Learning. Abingdon: Routledge.

 Codling, A. (2018) Thinking Critically About Law. Abingdon: Routledge.

 Maughan, C & Webb, J (2010) Lawyering Skills and the Legal Process. 2nd
ed. CUP.

 Darbyshire, P. (2007) The Complete Civil Litigator. Oxford: Oxford University

Press.

 MacCormick, N. (2007) Institutions of Law: An Essay in Legal Theory. Oxford:

Oxford University Press.

 Beale, H., & Dugdale, J. (Eds.). (2013) Professional Skills for Lawyers.
London: Routledge-Cavendish.
 Brazier, M., & Cave, E. (2008) Understanding Global Health Policy. London:
Hodder Arnold.
 Kirkham, R. (2019) A Guide to Mooting. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

 Griffiths, A. J., & Maughan, C. (2013) Concentrate Questions and Answers

Criminal Law: Law Q&A Revision and Study Guide. Oxford: Oxford University
Press.

 Holland, J., & Webb, J. (2013) Learning Legal Rules: A Student's Guide to
Legal Method and Reasoning. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
 Foster, N. (2014) A Textbook on Legal Method. Oxford: Oxford University
Press.

 Webb, J., & Maughan, C. (2010) Lawyering Skills and the Legal Process.
Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
 Keenan, D. J. (2014) Smith and Keenan's English Law. Harlow: Pearson
Education.

 Bond, E. (2019) Using a Law Library: A Student's Guide to Legal Research

Skills. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

 Askey, N. (2013) Legal Research: Take the Law into Your Own Hands.
Abingdon: Routledge.

 Hitchins, C. (2018) The English Legal System: Contract Law. London: Hodder
Education.
 Green, D. R. (2021). "Personal growth and development through legal
education: Reflections on community service, experience learning, and
networking." Reflective Legal Studies, 8(3), 210-230.

 Finch, E., & Fafinski, S. (2021) Legal Skills. Oxford: Oxford University Press.