LAW5125

Lawyers, Ethics and Society 506

(LAW)

Mr Adrian Evans and Mr Andrew Crockett (summer)

6 points + First and second semesters: Three 1-hour lectures per week + Summer semester: Two 2-hour lectures per week + Clayton + Prerequisites: LAW2100, LAW2200

Synopsis: History, organisation, education, functions and regulation of barristers and solicitors in Victoria and elsewhere. Reform issues. The nature and significance of a profession. Independence of courts and lawyers. The changing face of dispute resolution, the cost of justice and different modes of legal service delivery. Standards of professional conduct, complaints and disciplinary procedures. Ethical rules and moral values. The subject meets the requirements of the Council of Legal Education for admission to practice in Victoria in the area of /professional conduct0 (including basic trust accounting).

Assessment: Optional written research assignment (4000 words): 40% + Final examination (2.5 hours or 3.5 hours): 60% or 100%