In the legal sector, writing clearly, concisely and accurately is essential. If you are a legal professional or a writer wanting to hone your legal writing and research skills, this course is ideal for you.
Legal Research and Writing is an online professional development program that will provide you with the skills and knowledge required to research and write legal documentation.
In this online legal research and writing course you will learn how to locate and provide information in response to a request, including analysing information from a number of sources before composing a report for the client.
You will also learn how to research using primary sources of legal information, locating relevant information and writing up a basic summary, as well as draft a variety of legally binding documents to meet particular legal matter requirements, under the instruction of a qualified legal practitioner.
On completion of this course you will feel confident to research and write legal documentation to meet legal requirements.
Course Structure
Unit 1 - Research legal information using primary sources
- Receive and process request information
- Document request
- Confirm identity
- Other party’s rights to receive information
- Employee requests
- Barrister requests
- Current and potential clients
- Opposing parties
- Lawyers for opposing parties
- Information restrictions
- Australian privacy principles (APPs)
- Clarify client needs
- Establish relevant criteria
- Assist with a complaint
- Legal enquiries
- Seeking a referral
- Psychological interests
- Response methods and format
- Type of document needed
- Number of responses required
- Budget, timeframe and process
- Policies and procedures
- Responding to requests
- Forward request for information
- Contractual obligations
- Organisational policies
- Procedures and protocols
- Skills knowledge and procedures
- Identify information sources
- Research relevant sources
- Obtain access to identified sources
- Court document and court notices
- Regulations to providing details
- By-laws
- Treaties conventions and protocols
- Internet and media sources
- Formal study
- Problems accessing information
- Misplaced files
- Dealing with difficult people
- Lack of authority
- Backlog at supplier’s end
- Technical difficulties
- Problem-solving techniques
- Prepare to extract information
- Locate and extract information
- Implement resolutions to problems
- Copy extracted information
- Obtain and clarify instructions
- Security and confidentiality
- Arrange resources and information
- Check collated document
- Maintain integrity of information
- Storage of information
- Missing enclosures
- Ensure information meets request
- Evaluate extracted information
- Statistical analysis
- Inferential analysis
- Qualitative analysis
- Descriptive analysis
- Critical analysis
- Objective analysis
- Certificates
- Legislation
- Composing report
- Plan and synopsis for report
- Write a clear concise report
- Spelling punctuation and grammar
- Format report
- Organisational style
- Firm policies and procedures]
- Check for accuracy
- Finalise report
- Review and sign-off
- Information-recording procedures
- Attach file names and matter numbers
- Time recording procedures
- Forward report to client
Unit 2 - Produce complex legal documents
- Produce complex legal documents
- Document type
- Budget
- Time frame and process
- Document management software
- Email programs
- Document design and structure
- Costings
- Legislative requirements
- Using precedents
- Design and layout
- Facilitate review process
- Quality documents
- Problem-solving and constraints
- Training and documentation
- Advanced software functions
- Linking data between applications
- Spelling grammar numeric data
- File numbers
- Numerical address information
- Spelling and grammar
- Format and style
- Proofreading
- Modifications
- Action plan
- Managing difficulties
- Timelines
- To do lists
- Flow charts
- Gantt charts
- Security and confidentiality
- Changes
- Final printing
- Watermarks
- Cover pages
- Naming documents
- The Australian standard
- Policies and procedures
- Maintenance and security
- Accessibility and safety
Study Hours
Estimated duration 30 Hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% Online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
I believe the course was great and there were a number of things that I was able to use and learn. I believe practically that I thought it may be relevant for other areas not just in a law firm. Otherwise, it was well delivered.
J. Clough, Currimundi, QLD | Legal Research and Writing
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no entry requirements or pre-requisites for entry into this program.
How long will it take to complete this course?
The approximate study hours for this course is 30 hours. Twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply).
Can I purchase optional printed materials?
Yes! The cost for printed materials for this course is $50 per unit. Total cost for optional printed materials is: $100.00. Printed materials are available for purchase at any time and not require to complete this course. Everything you need to complete the course is provided online via our e-learning system.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of this course?
Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Attainment upon successful completion of your assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our e-learning system and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development For:-
- Legal Secretaries
- Paralegals
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