LAW7216

The civil liability of lawyers

(LAW)

Mr Joe Barravecchio

Synopsis: The general principles of professional negligence; examination of the relationship between legal practitioners, their clients and third parties; analysis of the principles of negligence, contract and equity and their interaction with federal and state legislation; concurrent liability and appropriate remedies in these areas. The contract of professional indemnity insurance and its operation; relevant civil procedure, including pleadings, discovery and the trial in the area of professional negligence; consideration of negotiation and mediation strategies aimed at avoiding further litigation; the regulation of client complaints, professional conduct and legal ethics.

Assessment: Research assignment (3750 words): 50% + Take home examination (3000 words): 40% + Class participation: 10%