Writing clearly, concisely, and accurately is essential in the legal sector. If you are a legal assistant or a writer wanting to hone your legal writing and research skills, this course is ideal for you.
Introduction to Legal Research and Writing is an online professional development program that provides the skills, knowledge, and tools to succeed in researching and writing legal documentation.
In this legal writing course, you will learn about the Australian legal system and ethics, develop your research skills, and hone your legal analysis and persuasive writing techniques.
You will also explore key legal databases, the fundamentals of case law analysis and legal problem-solving methodologies for effective legal writing and drafting.
On completion of this course, you will have gained the skills to improve your legal writing skills, conduct thorough research, and communicate effectively through persuasive writing.
Course Structure
Unit - Legal Research and Writing
Unit 1: Understanding the Australian Legal System
- Australian legal system
- Structure of government
- Common law and statutory law
- Common law principle
- Role of the High Court
- Legal institutions
- Rights and freedoms
- Legal professionals
- Federal laws
- State and territory laws
- Shared powers
- Local government
- Statutory interpretation
- Common law and legislation
- Doctrine of Precedent
Unit 2: Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility
- The role of lawyers
- Advocacy
- Legal drafting
- Fiduciary duty
- Access to justice
- Duty to the court
- Conflicts of interest
- Professional integrity
- The practice of law
- Codes of conduct
- Ethical considerations
- Confidentiality and privilege
Unit 3: Introduction to Legal Research
- Understanding the law
- Finding applicable laws
- Primary legal resources
- Secondary legal resources
- Legal databases
- AUSTLII
- JADE
- LexisNexis
- Westlaw
- Critically evaluating sources
Unit 4: Using Case Law Databases
- Case law databases
- Legislative research
- Legal encyclopaedias
- Internet research
- International research
Unit 5: Legal Analysis
- Introduction to legal analysis
- Identifying legal issues
- Analysing the law
- Applying the law to facts
- Counterarguments
- Drawing conclusions
- Reading and briefing cases
- Statutory interpretation
- Analogical reasoning
- Legal precedents
Unit 6: Legal Problem Solving
- Identifying legal issues
- Legal principles and rules
- Developing legal arguments
- Applying law to facts
- Predictive legal writing
- Researching the law
- Analysing the facts
- Analysis and reasoning
- Supporting your analysis
Unit 7: Legal Writing Fundamentals
- Effective legal writing
- Legal writing style and tone
- Formal and professional language
- Concise and clear writing
- Active voice and strong words
- Logical organisation
- Citation and attribution
- Objectivity
- Writing structure
- IRAC Method
- Grammar and Punctuation
Unit 8: Specific Legal Documents
- Legal memoranda
- Drafting affidavits
- Court briefs
- Drafting contracts
Unit 9: Persuasive Legal Writing
- Legal advocacy
- Legal arguments
- Effective communication
- Oral advocacy skills
- Written advocacy skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Evidence and facts
- Ethics and professionalism
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Persuasive strategies
- Writing appellate briefs
- Ethics and persuasion
Unit 10: Revision and Professional Development
- Revising and editing
- Peer review
- Continuing legal education
- Career opportunities
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
I enjoyed my time studying with AOC. I found that it was very easy to navigate my learning and also easy to receive very prompt responses to questions.
Thank you.
B. Scott, Brisbane, QLD | Legal Research and Writing
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Click Add to Cart/View Cart on the course page.
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit.
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 course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
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.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS 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 only 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.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development For:-
- Legal Secretaries
- Paralegals
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