James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

LA4041 - Legal Placement

In addition to meeting the specific subject prerequisites, students wishing to undertake the professional internship subject must email legal.WIL@jcu.edu.au no later than four (4) weeks prior to the commencement of the study period. The process will register your interest in the subject only and does not guarantee a place, as places are limited. Once registered a selection process takes place and you will be advised of the outcome by email. This process only applies to students enrolled on the Townsville or Cairns campus.

Subject Description

This Work Integrated Learning subject enables students to gain insights into and practical experience within either a domestic professional legal practice or an international legal organisation. Within a domestic placement students spend a minimum of 12 days working in an approved legal workplace under the supervision of a legal practitioner. The domestic placement has a focus on the necessary links between the theory and practice of law, practical legal skills and an understanding of the legal profession. Within an organised international placement students spend a minimum of 12 days working with a legal organisation in country on projects and programs which seek to enhance access to justice and social justice. The international placement has a focus on understanding and promoting inter-cultural capabilities and the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals (particularly SDG 16).

Learning Outcomes

• work effectively, respectfully and collaboratively with others
• demonstrate an awareness of ethical, social and cultural responsibilities in professional practice
• apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to address legal issues/problems in varied legal contexts
• demonstrate technical, interpersonal, communication skills and cultural capabilities for future professional application
• engage in critical reflection to support and promote self-improvement and further learning opportunities

Subject Assessment

• Placement Plan/Preparation Exercises - (20%)
• Professional Blog Entry/Critical Evaluation and Presentations - (40%)
• Reflective Exercises/Journal - (40%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  BU3101 LA4014

Availabilities