This module is not currently running in 2026 to 2027.
The aim of this module is to introduce students to some of the skills required to undertake parts of the SQE2 assessments following their studies. The module will focus on developing student skills in client interviewing, advocacy and negotiation. This will be done through practical exercises based around realistic case scenarios in the practice areas indicated in the SQE2 assessment specification. Examples include: criminal applications before the magistrates' court, civil applications in the county or High Court, negotiation exercises in the context of alternative means of dispute resolution and interviewing a client (in relation to, for example, wills and intestacy). Training will be provided through recorded podcasts, talking heads with practitioners and formative assessments in workshops.
It will also cover the application of accounts rules and the financial requirements, including anti-money laundering requirements, which form part of professional legal practice.
Upon completion of the module, and in combination with LAWS9009 and LAWS9010, students will have covered all aspects of the 'Principles of Professional Conduct’ section of the specification for Part 1 of the Solicitor’s Qualifying Examination (SQE) and will be able to apply that knowledge to the assessments set as part of the SQE.
Private study – 75
Contact hours – 30
Recorded training podcasts - 15
Total hours - 125
Available as a compulsory module to students on the following courses:-
MLaw Advanced Legal Practice (Integrated)
MLaw Advanced Legal Practice with a Minor Subject (Integrated)
The overall mark for the module will be pass/fail and students will be required to pass all elements
Coursework - Client Interview & Attendance Note - pass/fail
Coursework - Advocacy Exercise – pass/fail
Coursework - Negotiation Exercise – pass/fail
Coursework - Reflective Commentary (1500 words) – pass/fail
Coursework - Solicitors' Accounts Rules Assessment - pass/fail
13.2 Reassessment methods
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The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
Richard Du Cann, The Art of the Advocate (Penguin, 1993)
D.Hill & D.Pope, Mooting and Advocacy Skills (Sweet & Maxwell, 2007)
Robert McPeake (Ed.) Advocacy (Oxford University Press, 2021)
Iain Morley QC, The Devil's Advocate (Sweet & Maxwell, 2015)
Sherr, A., Client Interviewing for Lawyers, (Sweet & Maxwell 1986)
Westwood, F., Accelerated Best Practice – implementing success in professional firms (Troubador Publishing 2008)
Carr, H and Horsey, K, Skills for Law Students (Oxford University Press, 2009)
Cialdini, RB, Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion ( Harper Collins publishers Inc; 2007)
Finch E and Fafinski, S, Legal Skills (Oxford University Press, 2013)
Fisher R and Ury WL, Getting to Yes (Penguin Group, 1981)
Malhotra, D, Negotiating Genius (Bantam Books Inc; 2007)
Webb, J, Maughan, C (et al.), Lawyers' Skills (Legal Practice Course Guide) 15th Ed. (Oxford University Press, 2013)
King, L. and Kempton, J. Accounts for Solicitors (latest edition). (Blackwell's, 2021).
Solicitors Regulation Authority Standards and Regulations, incorporating SRA Code of Conduct 2022 and SRA Accounts Rules 2019. Available at https://www.sra.org.uk/solicitors/standards-regulations/
The intended subject specific learning outcomes are as below. On successfully completing the module students will be able to demonstrate:
1. A sophisticated knowledge and understanding of principles, practices and criteria that underpin effective performance in client interviewing, advocacy and negotiation, including key skills and applicable rules / formalities in each area.
2. An ability to analyse a case, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of different parties' positions, and to propose appropriate courses of action in light of this analysis, with due attention to rules of professional conduct and ethics.
3. An ability to undertake effective spoken and/or written advocacy, including formulation and presentation of coherent submissions, arguments or points based upon facts, general principles and legal authority in a sophisticated, structured, concise and persuasive manner appropriate to the context.
4. An ability to prepare effectively by identifying and mastering relevant facts and legal principles.
5. An ability to develop and systematically formulate the best options for meeting parties' objectives (including compromise options), taking into account (if relevant) the practical, commercial and personal considerations affecting them, and to respond to options presented by other parties and/or the tribunal.
6. A critical and comprehensive understanding on how the skills acquired translate to the role of a solicitor and the SQE2 assessment specification.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of rules that govern the financial aspects of legal professional practice; and demonstrate a capacity to correctly apply mathematical and accounting principles.
The intended generic learning outcomes are as below. On successfully completing the module students will be able to demonstrate:
1. An ability to organise facts to support an argument or position, with appropriate attention to detail.
2. An ability to present a reasoned argument in a clear, logical, succinct and persuasive way to respond effectively to questions or opposing arguments.
3. An ability to communicate effectively and persuasively both orally and in writing, by selecting and tailoring the communication form and style to suit the purpose of the communication and needs of different recipients.
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