lawyer

#Juris Doctor

Course summary overview

Restrictions apply. See Eligibility.

For close of application and other important dates,

This course has restricted enrolment. You must apply and be accepted before you can enrol in units.

What the degree is about

Overview

The Juris Doctor program is accredited by the Council of Legal Education (CLE) in Victoria as meeting the educational requirements for admission to practice as an Australian lawyer. You will be able to be admitted to practice after completing a recognised Practical Legal Training course (6 months); or supervised workplace training with a law firm (12 months). You will possess a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of the Australian legal framework and fundamental legal principles, an understanding of comparative and international legal systems, an understanding of the ethical framework in which the Australian legal system operates, and a fundamental knowledge of the extra-legal factors impinging upon the substantive law. You will also possess the ability to analyse a problem involving a question or questions of law and, through research, to provide a solution to it. You will possess the skills needed to practice law in a variety of fields, industry sectors and locations. You will develop skills in effective writing, drafting, advocacy, interviewing and advising, negotiation, team work and presentations. You will possess an understanding of the application of ethical standards and be able to demonstrate judgment and strategic reasoning. You will be effective in self-management and be a lifelong learner.

Students can determine their own study load each session perfect for those wishing to fast-track but also flexible for those wishing to combine study with work and family commitments.

With most of the units in the course taught online, students have the convenience of studying at a time that suits them, wherever they are. Yet the course also provides the rich experience of face-to-face, when students are required to attend on-campus.

Course Objectives

The RMIT JD offers students:

• Flexible delivery through extensive online teaching resources
• Rich practical experience through mock courts (moots) in the old Magistrates Court complex and simulated law firm exercises
• Elective choices in key areas including labour law, family law, human rights and insolvency law
• Highly experienced teachers with strong input from practising lawyers

Learning Outcomes

Juris Doctor graduates will have the foundational legal knowledge required for a career as a legal practitioner or legal/non-legal roles in a variety of law-related fields. They will be able to approach and resolve complex legal problems, using effective research and thinking skills. They will be able to communicate clearly, in written and verbal form, with a range of audiences. Possessing strong self-management skills, they will be able to work well individually and as members of teams. They will have sound commercial judgment and an awareness of the ethical and justice issues affecting all stakeholders in the Australian legal system.

On the successful completion of this program, you will be equipped to:

Discipline Knowledge

Apply an advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in professional practice that includes:

(a) The fundamental areas of legal knowledge, the Australian legal system and underlying principles and concepts, including international and comparative contexts;

(b) The broader contexts within which legal issues arise.

(c) The principles and values of justice and of ethical practice in lawyers roles.

(d) Contemporary developments in law, and its professional practice.

(e)Apply legal reasoning and research to generate appropriate jurisprudential and practical responses to legal issues.

Legal Research

(a) Demonstrate the intellectual and practical skills needed to justify and interpret theoretical propositions, legal methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions.

(b) Identify, research, evaluate and synthesise relevant factual, legal and policy issues.

Professional Practice

Practice law in a variety of fields, industry sectors and locations.

(a) Communicate in ways that are effective, appropriate and persuasive for legal and non-legal audiences; and collaborate effectively.

(b) Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of approaches to ethical decision making.

(c) Demonstrate self-management skills in a professional context.