Client Interviewing returns to Newcastle Law School in 2006 – 2007 with this year set to be bigger and better than ever. It is all being organised by the Client Interviewing Officers Laurie Swain and David Stew and Dickinson Dees have kindly agreed to sponsor yet again this year.
The competition is split into two parts:
Junior Competition – Client Interviewing is compulsory for first year law students as it forms part of the Legal Institutions and Methods Module, however the higher scorers will be selected to take part in a grand final where there will be the chance to compete for a prize.
Senior Competition – Although the competition is no longer compulsory for second and third year students, it gives individuals a chance to practice and enhance vocational skills. The majority of students go on to do the LPC and Client Interviewing gives you the chance to experience what is required in being a solicitor and looks good on your C.V.
What is Client Interviewing?
Assessment is based on a conference between solicitor and client. The individual playing the role of solicitor has to use both legal and personal skills to help, reassure and advise clients on the circumstances they find themselves in, as well as dealing with the legal practicalities of the situation.
Pairs will be assessed on categories such as start of interview and general manner, general practical awareness and understanding of legal issues. Assessment will be carried out by guest qualified solicitors.
The two highest scoring parties from both Client Interviewing Competitions will compete for the chance to be crowned champions and have your name engraved forever in the lecture theatre for generations of students to look at.
What’s useful about Client Interviewing?
Client Interviewing gives you the chance to experience the challenges faced by practising solicitors when attempting to apply the law to every day situation, with the aim of achieving a beneficial result for all parties. Involvement also offers a chance to build on your communication skills, interpersonal skills and adds something extra to your C.V.
Those looking toward the Bar should note that the competition has much in common with the role of a barrister when conducting client conferences; the limited time frame means that salient facts have to be established whilst trivialities are dispensed with.
Don’t worry…
Further instructions and help will be given nearer to the time, but the key thing to remember is in order to be successful you must adopt a professional attitude, which extends to conduct, dress and advice given.
It’s not as daunting as it sounds, if we won it anyone can really. It’s amazing how much you remember when you are in the interview and the clients are very helpful throughout.
If you have any questions please feel free contact one of us:
Laurie – Senior Client Interviewing Officer - L.I.Swain@newcastle.ac.uk