module
Undergraduate Module Descriptor
LAW3202: Lawyers Ethics in the Real World
This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.
Module Aims
The module aims to provide you with knowledge and understanding of the professional codes of conduct, and practice in applying the codes to ethical dilemmas that have arisen in real world case studies taken from practice. Through the case studies it also explores real examples of the key stages of a lawyer’s work such as: taking on clients; preparing cases; giving advice and opinions; preparing documents such as contracts and NDAs; conducting independent investigations; and appearing before courts and tribunals.
A further aim of the module is to give you insight into how the behaviour of lawyers links to key incidents of public interest, such as: the financial crisis of 2008; the Hacking scandals; and the suppression of sexual harassment highlighted by the #MeToo movement.
Finally, through a consideration of the context of these scandals and the social scientific literature on ethical decision-making, you will explore the personal and institutional influences on professional behaviour. As such the module aims to lay the intellectual groundwork for a life in practice or elsewhere as an ethically informed professional.
| On successfully completing the programme you will be able to: | |
|---|---|
| Module-Specific Skills | 1. Demonstrate a detailed, accurate and persuasive understanding of the Standards and Regulation of solicitors and their practical application. 2. Discuss and effectively relate the main roles of lawyers in the courts, business, and other settings to ethical problems. 3. Competently articulate and discuss the importance of some of the social, economic, and psychological influences on lawyers decision-making. |
| Discipline-Specific Skills | 4. Apply legal knowledge accurately and persuasively to complex problems and apply judgement when presented with competing imperatives. |
| Personal and Key Skills | 5. Effectively articulate and discuss ones own ethical inclinations and the cultures of organisations. 6. Develop and effectively communicate complex arguments and opinions with limited guidance. |