Lawkipedia 2021 by UNSW Law Society

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YOUR GUIDE TO STUDYING LAW AT UNSW

Table of Contents 5 Dean’s Welcome

Meet the LawSoc Cabinet 17

Presidents’ Portfolio

Activities Portfolio

Administration Portfolio

Education Portfolio

International Portfolio

Juris Doctor Portfolio

Mooting Portfolio

Presidents’ Welcome

Arriving as a High School Student

Arriving as a Transfer Student

Arriving as an International Student

Arriving as a Juris Doctor Student

Excelling at University

Leading a Balanced Lifestyle

Lawkipedia is proudly supported by ARC

Private Law Careers Portfolio

Public Interest Careers Portfolio

Skills Portfolio

ILJ/Private Law

Social Justice Portfolio

Crime & Criminal Process/Public Law

Secretary/Treasurer’s Portfolio

Torts

Enrolment Tips

Student Legal Education Group

Activities 30

Law Camp

LawPlus

JD/PD Impact Mentoring Program

Law Revue

LawSoc and Sports

Law Ball

Law Band

Wellbeing

UNSW Law Journal

UNSW Law Board

Exchange

Competitions 47

Mooting

Negotiations/Mediation

Client Interviewing

Witness Examination

Subject Guides

Dean’s Welcome

tarting your law degree is an intense and exciting experience – requiring you to get to grips with the language and structures of the law, deepen your skills in oral and written communication through the interactive classes that are the cornerstone of the Faculty’s programs, and to stay on top of the substantial pre-class reading and revision that is a law student’s lot in life!

Presidents’ Welcome Sometimes, the reality of legal study challenges preconceived ideas you may have had about what to expect. Don’t be deterred should this be the case – inevitably, things are a bit different in practice than they seemed when considered in the abstract. The key is to be open to what comes your way and to reach out to your fellow students and teachers. Law is a dynamic subject and understanding is driven by informed discussion and debate. In publishing Lawkipedia, the Law Society offers great assistance to those commencing the study of law at UNSW. Written by students with the most recent, first-hand experience of the foundation stage in the LLB and JD, the course reviews contained in this guide give very practical advice about how to get on (with ‘do the readings’ and ‘see Class Participation as an opportunity’ being dominant themes!). They should also offer much reassurance to those who are unsure what to expect from particular courses or who might be feeling daunted by the workload or complexity of subject matter.

The Faculty of Law & Justice is very appreciative and proud of the major contribution that the Law Society makes to our students’ experience. Lawkipedia is a terrific example of this work – and I am pleased to endorse the contents of this guide to you as you embark on study toward your degree. Professor Andrew Lynch – Acting Dean

Presidents’ Welcome

ey there! Congratulations on making it to UNSW Law! As the 2021 UNSW Law Society Presidents, we are thrilled to welcome you to the UNSW Law family. This stage of your education provides the invaluable opportunity to befriend incredible people, learn more about yourself and define your future. The UNSW Law Society is the bloodline of student life at UNSW, and exists to enrich the experience of all law students here at our Uni, offering many fantastic opportunities and initiatives to cater for the needs and interests of all of our members. Although UNSW Law is famous for providing a plethora of career opportunities for its students, you will soon realise that we are much more than just a platform where students can discover a career path. At the heart of UNSW Law Society lies a welcoming community, where you will you make precious memories and meet life-long friends who will support you throughout your journey! You will undoubtedly be studying alongside many other wonderful students, gaining experiences that will truly make your time at UNSW the best years of your life and serve you well in the workforce. We highly encourage you to embrace these experiences and opportunities which our Law Society offers with open arms. Make sure you sign-up to become a UNSW Law Society member, like our UNSW Law Society Facebook and Instagram pages, and join our student-run UNSW Law Society Discussion Forum on Facebook so that you are up to date with all of our events! Also, don’t forget to come to our famous Law Camp and sign-up to our LawPLUS mentoring program! Once again, congratulations on your entry into UNSW Law! We are so excited to get to know you during our upcoming activities and events in 2021, and are looking forward to helping you make the most of your time at UNSW. We wish you all the very best!

Alex Zoras & Sanjay Alapakkam 2021 UNSW Law Society Co-Presidents

ARRIVING AS A HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT Congratulations! You've made it to UNSW Law! The long hours of study and hard work have paid off and you are finally here.

o what should you expect? UNSW Law is a fun and energetic community with people of a wide variety of views and ideas. Expect to make many new friends from your first year of lectures and tutorials as well as through LawPLus mentoring, and other events and activities such as LawCamp. Through your transition from high school, there are many helpful programs to ensure you feel supported, and are enjoying your first year at university. These include the

LawPlus program, mentoring, and beginners competitions, all of which help hone your skills and passion for the law. Finally, your lectures and tutorials will be relatively interactive, with the chance to ask questions and collaborate with your peers. So get ready, you have years of fun and great times ahead of you! Lauren Claire Bush, (2nd Year Inst/Law)

ARRIVING AS A TRANSFER STUDENT Firstly, be proud that you have independently made such a massive step in transferring to UNSW Law!

he transition at first will seem scary, since you will be adapting to a completely new workload and system. As a transfer student, you need to be able to manage the change in workload. Law requires continuous weekly reading, meaning it can be easy to fall behind in class. Before the trimester begins, have a plan for the courses that you study as this can help avoid delays in your degree progression. As well,attend the various LawSoc workshops and peer-mentoring sessions for first-year subjects which provides support during stressful times. Finally, involve yourself in both the first-year law camp and the LawPLUS program which are really good ways to connect with peers in your cohort. The best advice I can give to someone transferring into UNSW Law, is to keep challenging yourself to undertake daunting tasks, whether it be participating in the (many) law skill competitions (highly encouraged), or doing volunteer work. By pushing your own boundaries and exceeding your comfort zone, you will grow as a person in ways you never imagined, and it is duly rewarding. So take this opportunity and go places with it. It was never handed to you on a silver platter, rather, you worked hard for it since it meant something to you, so keep going!

And while you may struggle to be a part of a clique in those first few weeks, there will come a time where you will meet a group of people who will make the journey, and all the ups and downs of it, so memorable! Alex Krikorian (4th Year, Commerce/Law)

ARRIVING AS AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT

Have a read of some of our international students’ testimonies on settling into law school!

still remember my first week in UNSW Law and it was definitely dauntingstarting law school is already challenging enough on its own, but adapting to a new culture at the same time made it even more so! However, with time it became easier and I slowly became more comfortable with my new academic and personal environment. To incoming international students- don’t fret! There are a myriad of wonderful activities conducted by UNSW Lawsoc that international students can get involved in. The international portfolio organises annual activities to help international students integrate into Australia, while giving them an opportunity to relax and have fun amid the stresses of the academic year. This year, the international portfolio has some exciting events lined up: In Term 1, we will be conducting a Buddy programme which pairs up domestic and overseas students with the aim of encouraging cultural exchange between both parties. There will also be a T1 Welcome Drinks session for international students as well! Other events that we will be running later in the year include barbecues, an online games competition and information sessions in collaboration with other societies- so stay tuned for more updates on those! Jessica, (3rd year Commerce/Law student from Singapore)

oining UNSW as an international student is as exciting as it is challenging. Though the inevitable language barrier and foreign education system may be unfamiliar at first, international students will always be delighted and proud of the progress that they will surely make. The unique experience that studying abroad provides will enable international students to view things from an entirely different perspective. UNSW’s welcoming community, flexible learning pathways and educational resources available allow international students to feel supported while enjoying study and life. In the case of commencing law students, UNSW’s Law Society offers a range of educationally stimulating, socially interactive and fun events to help them better adapt to university life in Australia. In the upcoming 2021 year, the international portfolio has multiple events planned, including a morning tea with international alumni, an outreach mentoring program tailored to international students, a law essay competition probing intellectual minds and more. They are designed with the aim of helping international and exchange students to better integrate into the UNSW Law program. Engaging with Lawsoc activities will enable international students to develop academically and offer them chances to interact with a wide range of like-minded students as well as benefit from the expertise of their predecessors. Martin Li and Yuna Zhao (Student Development Directors Law Society)

ARRIVING AS A JURIS DOCTOR STUDENT As a Juris Doctor Student, you'll develop your legal knowledge in a challenging and dynamic learning environment under the guidance of a world-class Faculty.

he first thing to expect as a new JD student, whether or not you already possess an undergraduate law degree, is the amount of readings you will have hundreds and hundreds of pages per week! Doing the readings diligently and briefing cases are important to ensure you are on top of your subjects by the time exams start. In some areas of the law, such as Public Law or Equity and Trusts, you may find that you don’t fully understand what you’re reading. There is no single eureka moment, but eventually it will all come together as you delve deeper into the readings, and all the

pieces of the puzzle will start to fit!Other than the academic aspect of being a JD student, it is good to find things to do in your spare time - such as social activities like the ones held by LawSoc, sports, competitions, and mentoring. It is helpful and healthy to strike a balance between work and play. Joanna Teo (3rd Year JD student)

EXCELLING AT UNIVERSITY Plan Ahead • Check the UNSW library website before the trimester starts to see which textbooks you might need to buy for your subjects. • You can get a headstart on readings (some may even be required for your first week) by having a look at the reading guides uploaded to your Moodle courses a week or so prior to classes beginning. • Set weekly reminders and calendar notifications for when assignments are due, so you don’t end up pulling all nighters, and procrastinating. • You can do readings in advance if you know that a particular part of the trimester will be particularly busy. Time management is a key to success! • Start on assignments as soon as you can! Getting a head start may mean a better mark! • Invest time and effort proportionately to the weighting of the assessment task. It may be tempting to spend many hours on the ILJ Court Report (your first Law School assessment), however, it is simply not worth pouring fastidiously over every tiny detail of the report given it is worth 10% of your course mark! Time well spent on your notes may prove more useful given the final exam is worth 30%. • Try to reference as you go for assignments (you will receive classes on how to appropriately reference in Law School, given it is a different style and has different requirements to what is traditionally sought in High School). Branch out from Academics • Make sure you are getting involved in the variety of competitions such as mooting, negotiations, and client interviewing which allow you to apply your legal skills in a more practical fashion. • Get involved in UNSW sport! With our amazing sport directors, we have a running club that was set up in 2020. As well, get involved with Arc Sports. Whether you play recreationally or competitively, Arc Sports offers many opportunities for a wide range of sports from Basketball to GridIron to TaeKwonDo. • Come to LawSoc Events! Attending events such as Law Launch, Law Ball and PubCrawl is a good way to meet new people and celebrate the hard work you put into your degree.

LEADING A BALANCED LIFESTYLE Studying Law at UNSW comes with incredible opportunities for the development of academic passion, involvement with professional environments, networking, engagement in social events and activities, and personal growth. However, with new and exciting experiences also comes challenges and trials, as with any large change in life. Common challenges for students include juggling all such opportunities with other priorities and commitments outside of university life, such as employment, family, and hobbies, amongst many others! We’ve all seen the meme: “Study. Social life. Sleep. Choose two.” Maintaining balance within your lifestyle where you can get the most out of your university experience, whilst also keeping your mental and physical wellbeing a top priority, is definitely possible. A few tips for any student include: 1. Schedule it in! Keeping a planner -- whether online or in hardcopy, this allows you to visualise your days and weeks, allowing you to keep track of all commitments. Forgetting an assignment due date or coffee with a new friend is much harder to do with a planner keeping you organised. 2. Check in with yourself! Make time for yourself and be mindful of how you’re feeling and coping with university. So many opportunities can be overwhelming but reflecting on your priorities allows you to remain grounded and ready for anything. 3. Reach out! Maintaining a balanced lifestyle can be difficult but there is always someone that can help and support you. New and old friends, faculty members, and university services like CAPS can do just that.

If you’re keen to learn more about living a balanced lifestyle whilst at UNSW or are interested in more resources, email wellbeing.director@unswlawsoc.org.au Hayden Clift & Kate Morel (Wellbeing Directors)

MEET THE LAWSOC CABINET The LawSoc Cabinet is a student-elected body that is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of UNSW Law Society. Led by Co-Presidents, Alex Zoras and Sanjay Alapakkam, the team consists of 10 Vice-Presidents who lead their respective portfolios, as well as the Secretary and Treasurer. Have a read of the Cabinet profiles below, to gain an understanding of who they are, what our society does, our vision and how you can get involved!

• Presidents' Portfolio

• Private Law Careers

• Activities • Administration • Education

• Public Interest Careers

• International • JD/PG • Mooting

• Skills • Social Justice • Secretary • Treasurer

PRESIDENTS’ PORTFOLIO Co-President of UNSW Law Society (Female Identifying)

What should you expect from studying UNSW Law? • A strong sense of community among peers and across different yeargroups.

presidents@unswlawsoc.org

• The opportunity to meet new people and expand your friendship group. • In between your studies, UNSW Law students are lucky enough to be provided the opportunity to be involved in a multitude of extra-curricular activities, including but certainly not limited to: attending Law Camp as both campees and leaders; access to incredible mentoring programs; the ability to be an executive of the UNSW Law Society; and, the opportunity to compete in our various competitions, such as mooting, negotiations, witness examination, mediation and client interviewing. • A vitally supportive study environment, in respect of one’s peers and lecturers. • Access to the lecturers and resources of a leading Law School. • An environment which strongly encourages students to be themselves, and facilitates necessary skill development for success beyond university in whichever career path individuals may choose.

Alex Zoras (Law Society President) Advice for first year self: "Make the most of all elements of the UNSW experience – from our many social events, mentoring programs, study sessions with friends, after-class feeds, excellent education opportunities, and extra-curricular skills competitions"

Why study UNSW Law? • Notwithstanding its placement as a leading Law School, I appreciate UNSW’s holistic and practical approach to student learning within the Law Faculty. There is a focus on high-achievement in academics, but also an immersion in extra-curricular activities which allows students to develop the necessary skills to succeed.

Beyond this career-savvy approach, I believe the global opportunities UNSW Law has to offer to be quite impressive! Additionally, UNSW Law is quite forward-thinking: our use of the Law Admissions Test (‘LAT’) reflects how lawyers of today are required to be well-rounded with strengths, skills and interests that pertain to more than just academic knowledge.

PRESIDENTS’ PORTFOLIO Co-President of UNSW Law Society (Male Identifying)

What should you expect from studying UNSW Law?

presidents@unswlawsoc.org

Studying at a top law school will no doubt be challenging at times. However, you will soon form long term friendships, build your support network and benefit from the academic support that faculty and LawSoc provide. There are many opportunities here, from being able to participate in competitions, to performing at our annual Law Ball, being published in our social justice journal and having the change to meet a wide range of people in the legal profession and beyond.

Why did you chose UNSW Law? As someone whose interest in law was a product of my passion for social justice and problem solving, from a very young age, I was drawn to this law school’s emphasis on exploring the law and its impacts people who are at the margins of society. I am very happy to say that studying here has strengthened my interest in the intersection of law and social justice, my ability to critically examine this across a range of subject areas and to grasp opportunities to support those less fortunate than myself.

What, if anything surprised you? Something that surprised me was the sense of camaraderie amongst law students at UNSW, that somehow coexisted with the natural competitiveness that is present amongst the high achievers at this law school. Central to this is the willingness of older students and teaching staff to be generous with their time in providing you advice based on their own past experiences, from imparting knowledge about how to improve my grades, to how to approach job applications in my penultimate year.

Sanjay Alapakkam (Law Society President)

Advice for first year self: "This is an exciting time where you are entering a period of autonomy, independent learning and the chance to explore your passion both inside and outside the classroom. To make the most of this, keep an open mind, be willing to learn new things and grasp every opportunity you get, with both hands. Enjoy the journey."

ACTIVITIES PORTFOLIO The Activities Portfolio is responsible for running the society’s social events.

What is the Activites Portolio?

activities@unswlawsoc.org

The Portfolio aims to foster friendships and develop a strong sense of community in order to make law school fun and memorable. The Portfolio also aims to ensure a smooth transition for first year and transfer students into UNSW Law, by facilitating a peer-based mentoring program as well as social, sports and music focused events.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? With a challenging year ahead for the Activities Portfolio, I hope to see most, if not all planned events running in 2021 at its maximum potential. Despite the uncertainties in the year ahead given the COVID-19 context, my focus in 2021 is to encourage greater participation within all aspects of the portfolio and to create unique initiatives that contribute to the experiences for all LawSoc members.

Key Events and How to Get Involved

Christina Ienco Vice-President (Activities) "No matter how good one individual is, it takes a whole team to win a championship" - Lebron James

• Keep an eye out on the UNSW LawSoc • Law Ball –Taking place on 24 September, be sure to save the date for LawSoc’s biggest Facebook Page for notifications for these social event. key events when they are posted. • LawPLUS Peer Mentoring – Sign up to • SULS x UNSW LawSoc Harbour Cruise – for the first time ever, UNSW LawSoc will be become a mentee and learn a thing or two hosting a harbour cruise in collaboration from our older students who can impart with Sydney University Law Society. wise words as well tell you where the best coffee on campus is!. • End of Year Party - celebrate the hardwork and effort you have put in throughout the • Start of Year Party – at Cargo Bar in 2021, year with your peers! all are encouraged to attend. This is a great way to meet new people ! • Social sports, law band, weekly discount • Law Camp – In Term 2, law camp is where life-long friendships amongst the first-year cohort are formed!

coffee - catch up with people and destress throughout the term!

ADMINISTRATION PORTFOLIO administration@unswlawsoc.org

What is the Administration Portolio?

Annie Xiao Vice-President (Administration) "We must strive to be like the moon.’ An old man in Kabati repeated this sentence often...” -Ishmael Beah

The Administration Portfolio acts as the bridge connecting students to the Society. We are responsible for both the internal and external functions of the society, so that everything you see, hear and know about LawSoc is of top quality. We market all LawSoc initiatives through our very own website, across various social media platforms, and our email newsletter – The Brief. We are also in charge of designing and distributing Law Society merchandise such as our hoodies and providing member benefits by partnering with on and off-campus vendors.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? In 2021, the Administration Portfolio will aim to increase student engagement through our social media accounts by revamping our Instagram (@unswlawsoc) and creating more video content. We will also aim to increase direct communication with students by providing opportunities for student input and feedback, such as in the process of creating Law Society merchandise.

Key Events and How to Get Involved • Keep an eye out on the UNSW LawSoc • LawSoc Crew: Becoming a member of the LawSoc Crew is a rewarding experience as Merchandise: Keep an eye out for the launch you will be invited to assist any portfolio via of our Law Society merchandise in T2. Some email on a volunteer basis. Keep an eye out examples include our famous hoodies for more information closer to T2! and sweaters, as well as eco-friendly drink bottles!

EDUCATION PORTFOLIO What is the Education Portolio?

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? In 2021, I aim to expand this portfolio to be more inclusive to cater for the diverse nature of law school. By expanding our mentoring programs and widening the type of academic support we provide, the Education portfolio is looking to be a body that can be attentive to the differing needs of students.

education@unswlawsoc.org

Hey guys! Welcome to UNSW Law School. My name is Anvi Kohli and I am the Vice-President of Education within the UNSW Law Society. The main purpose of the Education portfolio is twofold; to provide academic support and assist students in maintaining both the physical and mental aspects of their wellbeing. Law school can at times be gruelling and difficult. As such, our portfolio aims to support students at all stages of their degree. Whether you are first year transitioning, a 4th year stressing over clerkships or a final year student grinding out the final few subjects you have, UNSW Law Society is here to help!

Anvi Kohli Vice-President (Education) "Rivers know this: there is no hurry, we shall get there some day." Winnie the Pooh

How to get Involved? • Come to our mid-sem and finals revision • Apply to be a Wellbeing Warrior! Applications are open T1 Week 1. workshops which help prep you for exam content and key legal skills. • Be paired with an industry mentor and learn about the legal profession through our Careers • Attend our trimesterly Wellness Week which is Compass Mentoring. composed of both online and in person events that are designed to destress students and • Have a read of the several publications we have. provide them with helpful tips on Wellbeing. You are reading one right now! Throughout • Keep an eye out for our Wellbeing Warriors posts on the UNSW Law Society page every Wednesday which provide great insights into maintaining your physical and mental health.

the year we will be releasing a range of guides targeted at career opportunities, wellbeing and electives courses.

INTERNATIONAL PORTFOLIO What is the International Portolio?

Key Events and How to Get Involved

Welcome and a huge congratulations for making it to UNSW Law School. My name is Harrison Zheng but if you see me around campus, please call me Harry! I am the Vice-President (International) for UNSW Law Society. The International Portfolio serves two specific roles within the UNSW Law community: uplifting the law school experience of students with an international background, and assisting all law students who are interested in a future overseas with their ambitions. As our world becomes more connected, it is important to enable those from overseas to successfully engage with everything an Australia legal education provides, and further, to provide those with an Australian law degree a widened perspective of the opportunities that may be present to them internationally.

• International Law Fair (T1) • Outreach Mentoring Program (start weeks of T1 and T3) • International Students Welcome Drinks and BBQs (All Year!) • International Law Essay Competition (T3) • Make sure you get our updates and details for even more amazing events by following (in addition to our main channels) our WeChat, the UNSW Law Society International Student Group and the Brief.

My vision for 2021 can be summarised quite easily in one word: outreach. The International Portfolio aims to be able to raise greater awareness for the support and resources that UNSW Law Society has to assist international students. Secondly, we hope to see a greater interest in international careers and opportunities through the various events we organise. We strive to accomodate for a wide range of backgrounds, interests and ambitions. Harrison Zheng Vice-President (International) "If you can smile, you can be the light!” - Luxanna

international@unswlawsoc.org

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021?

JURIS DOCTOR/POST-GRADUATE PORTFOLIO

jdpg@unswlawsoc.org

What is the JD/PG Portolio?

Catherine Bouris Vice-President (JD/PG) "The truth is rarely pure and never simple. Oscar Wilde.

Key Events and How to Get Involved • By joining the Facebook group! Just search ‘UNSW JD/Postgrad’ on Facebook to join. • Term 1: Welcome BBQ, Start of 2021 Drinks, JD/PG Impact Peer Mentoring Program

The Juris Doctor/Postgraduate portfolio provides a community at UNSW Law for Juris Doctor and Postgraduate students alike. Our experience of university, especially that of studying law in particular, can be different to those of our undergraduate counterparts. As such, it’s important to support students through those experiences and try and meet their specific needs. Whether you’ve just finished your undergraduate degree or are returning to uni after some time away, starting a new degree can be daunting. My portfolio aims to make your transition as seamless as possible.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? I’m hoping to reinvigorate the portfolio after COVID-19, particularly the social events we weren’t able to host in 2020. I’d also love to foster stronger connections between Juris Doctor and Masters/PhD students, and domestic and international students.

• Term 2: Barefoot Bowls and JD/PG in Wonderland • Term 3: Black Tie Ball, End of 2021 Drinks, JD/PG Impact Peer Mentoring Program

MOOTING PORTFOLIO What is the Mooting Portolio? Mooting is a simulated appeal court proceeding where students prepare written submissions and deliveroral submissions before a panel of judges. It is one of the most valuable extracurricular activities offered at UNSW as it allows you to develop your legal research, writing and advocacy skills. By participating in mooting, you will build upon skills and content learnt in the classroom, and markedly improve your approach to your law assignments and exams. Mooting is also a great way to meet other people and establish some great friendships! Through mooting, you can also represent UNSW in external competitions, and travel across Australia and overseas.

• Term 1 Week 2: Introduction to Mooting Workshop and Demonstration Moot • Term 1 Week 4: Round 1 of Beginners Mooting Competitions Commences • Term 1 Week 7: Round 1 Review Workshop

mooting@unswlawsoc.org

The Mooting Portfolio runs UNSW Internal Mooting Competitions, provides training resources and workshops, and facilitates participation in several external competitions.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? I hope that students of all skill levels are encouraged to try mooting in 2021 and that they find it to be a welcoming and inclusive experience. My vision is that competitors will be well-supported by our training workshops and resources, and that they can develop their practical legal skills in a fun and social learning environment.

Key Dates and How to get Involved Keep an eye out for registration information and mooting related news in the Brief (newsletter), the UNSW Law Society website and on Facebook! As a first-year student, you can sign up to Beginners Mooting either with a friend, or by yourself (and we will partneryou up with someone)!

Jessie Xiao Vice-President (Mooting) "“First winter rain I plod on, Traveller, my name.” - Matsuo Bashō

PRIVATE LAW CAREERS PORTFOLIO privatelawcareers@unswlawsoc.org

What is the Private Law Careers Portolio?

Isaac Dela Torre Vice-President (Private Law) "Can we stop duetting videos when we have absolutely nothing to add to them?" - @johnson_fran.

The Private Law Careers Portfolio aims to educate students about the legal market and facilitate professional development through firm presentations and skills workshops. We also provide students with opportunities to network with firm representatives at flagship events which include the Careers Fair and Clerkship Cocktail Evening.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? In 2021 my vision for the portfolio is to expand our events beyond commercial law and introduce events exposing students to industries outside of the law through our first ever Corporate Careers Panel. Further I want to ensure students begin developing important skills in their prepenultimate years through networking and personal branding workshops and our paralegal panel. I hope to see you at all our events!

Key Events and How to Get Involved You can get involved by attending all of our events • Firm Presentations & Skills Workshops - T1, W7 - T2 W5 and meeting firm representatives as well as volunteering at our Careers Fair. Can't wait to see • Private Law Careers Publication Launch - T1, you there!! W9 • Practice Area Presentations - T1, W4-5 • Paralegal Panel - T2, W7 • Private Law Careers Fair - T1, W8 (8 April) - you can volunteer!

• Pre-Penultimate Panel - T3, W5

PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS PORTFOLIO What is the Public Interest Portolio?

publicinterestcareers@unswlawsoc.org

The Public Interest Portfolio focuses on non-corporate career opportunities, while promoting careers that drive social change. The portfolio informs and supports students at all stages of their degree through their career guide, panel interviews, workshops, interactive seminars and networking events. These provide students with an understanding of the various career opportunities available and enable them to make an informed decision.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? My vision for 2021 involves 3 main aspects: 1. Increased student support: I want to ensure the portfolio is supporting students throughout all stages of their career both in providing awareness on various PIC areas and providing support in the graduate application process. 2. Diversity: I want to increase initiatives focused on diversity within the PIC space, allowing First Nations, LGBTQIA+, ethnocultural, disabled and/or women identifying students to understand the importance of their identity in the PIC space. 3. Innovation: I want to enhance PIC initiatives and create new events and programs, providing new information to student and setting a precedent where new areas of law should be constantly explored by PIC in future years.

Amal Naser Vice-President (Public Interest) "Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time." - RBG

Key Dates and How to get Involved • Term 1: PIC Skills Workshop,Careers in Public Policy, Careers in Administrative Law • Term 2: Corporate Pro Bono Panel, Careers in International Law and Foreign Policy, Careers in Criminal Law • Term 3: Careers in Human Rights Networking Night, Associateship and Tipstaff Panel, Careers at the Bar and Careers in the Government Panel 26

SKILLS PORTFOLIO What is the Skills Portolio?

skills@unswlawsoc.org

Hi there, my name is Bridget and I’m the Vice-President of Skills Competitions for 2021. Skills competitions simulate real-life legal scenarios to facilitate the development of communication, adaptability and critical thinking techniques. There are four skills competitions, which include:

Bridget Hudson Vice-President (Skills) "The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it" - Michelangelo.

Sign-ups for each competition are released via weekly email in The Brief (head over to the Law Society stand at O-Week to sign up!) and in the Facebook group ‘UNSW Law Society Discussion Forum’.

• Negotiations - involving you and a partner amicably upholding the interests of your client in a given set of facts; • Mediations - in which you and a partner utilise an independent mediator to facilitate creative solutions to a dispute; • Witness Examination - where you get to unleash your inner ‘Law and Order’ lawyer to question witnesses in a case; and • Client Interviewing - where you aid a client in a legal matter as if in an initial consultation. There are internal UNSW competitions for each of the above competitions, which are great fun and allow you to meet many of the other students in your cohort. Further, each has Beginners’ competitions for all 1st year and transfer students, specifically designed to help you learn. Additionally, we run Preparation Workshops and Practice Rounds for all competitions throughout Term 1 so give it a go!

Opportunities There are also many exciting opportunities to compete against other universities in external competitions. These include both national and international competitions that take place all over the world, such as in Paris and Vienna. On a personal note, participation in skills competitions has been a highlight of my time at UNSW. It has allowed me to meet many of my close friends and has seen me compete against law students from across the world - I cannot recommend them enough! Please email me should you have any questions, I cannot wait to meet you all and I wish you the best of luck in your transition to university!

SOCIAL JUSTICE PORTFOLIO What is the Social Justice Portolio?

Key Events

The purpose of the Social Justice Portfolio is twofold. Firstly, we aim to foster an inclusive environment within the UNSW Law School. Our Diversity & Inclusion team runs events aiming to amplify minority and marginalised voices, and to provide opportunities for these students so that everyone can achieve their greatest potential.

Beyond this, we offer multiple writing opportunities and run a range of other programs, seminars and activities throughout the year focused on activism, social justice, diversity & inclusion. Keep an eye out on the weekly email brief as well as the Facebook discussion forum!

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? Entering 2021, we hope to continue to expand and develop our Diversity & Inclusion programs to more adequately provide for the emotional and practical needs of minority students, and to increase our activity in advocacy and policy. These goals have underscored the reintroduction of the Environmental Officer role to support passionate students in the fight against climate change, the introduction of the Equitable Access Officer to represent a greater scope of disadvantaged students, and the expansion of the Policy Submissions team to increase the offerings of policy submission opportunities for students .

• Big Queer Moot • Mentoring Programs (Wom*n’s, Queer, POC). • Court of Conscience Publication Launch • Wom*n’s Intervarsity Conference • Policy Submissions

socialjustice@unswlawsoc.org

Secondly, we aim to raise awareness about social injustices by providing advocacy opportunities for students within various publications, policy submissions, educational seminars, competitions and other initiatives.

How to Get Involved There are so many ways to get involved in the Social Justice portfolio in 2021! If you’re interested in policy and law reform, we offer the opportunity for students to collaborate on policy Submissions which get considered in major parliamentary inquiries. We also run mentoring programs for female, LGBTQ+ and POC students, where you can be paired with a similarly identifying lawyer to help you push past barriers and gain valuable insights into your field of interest.

Joshua Skyes Vice-President (Social Justice)

"The way things are does not determine the way they ought to be” Michael J. Sandel, Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do?

secretary@unswlawsoc.org

SECRETARY PORTFOLIO

Lawrance Huang Vice-President (Secretary) "There is no i in law"

What is the Secretariat Portolio? The Secretariat portfolio is responsible for the overall governance, compliance and internal administration of LawSoc. My primary responsibility is to work closely with the LawSoc Cabinet to ensure we act in accordance with the Law Society Constitution, regulations, and statutory requirements. The portfolio also maintains strong collaborative relationships with external stakeholders including the Law Faculty and Arc at UNSW.

Portfolio Vision My vision for the portfolio in 2021 is to improve existing policies and procedures, establish new guidelines and policies, and foster the best practices to ensure the transparency and accountability of the Cabinet.

Memorable Experience I have had many memorable experiences at UNSW Law, from competing in the diverse range of competitions offered by the Skills and Mooting portfolios to attending all the professional and social events that are held throughout the year.

TREASURER PORTFOLIO What is the Treasurer's Portolio? The Treasurer is responsible for maintaining the society’s finances and ensuring that all portfolios have the necessary resources for their initiatives. Working closely with the Presidents, the Treasurer develops a budget at the start of the year and monitors each portfolio’s spending throughout the year to ensure we stay within the budget.Additionally, as LawSoc is a registered charity, the Treasurer works closely with our auditors and external governing bodies to meet our regulatory obligations.

What vision do you have for the portfolio in 2021? Jason Zhang Vice-President (Treasurer) "GME”

Throughout 2021, the Treasury aims to be more transparent about LawSoc’s finances with our members. There will be regular updates offering insights into where we obtain our funding and as well as what these funds are being applied to.

Favourite thing about UNSW Law My favourite part of UNSW Law is the diverse range of extracurricular opportunities. Between conferences, careers events, volunteering, and societies, there are plenty of ways to get involved and pursue your interests.

ACTIVITIES LAW CAMP

n what proved to be one of the only first-year events that was held in a disrupted 2020 calendar, Law Camp (Lawlympics) was definitely a shining light for both attendees and leaders alike. Having heard rave reviews from second and third years who had attended previously, it was a no-brainer to start the year off by heading off to Camp Yarramundi (and at the same time, miss an ILJ class), and I wasn’t disappointed! Having met other first-years from my own group, during activities (no spoilers here!) and at the glorified camp party, I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to socialise before the pandemic put in-person activities to a screeching halt. It was the perfect opportunity to meet many from the cohort and make new friendships! As well as this, I had the chance to speak to some of the fourth and fifth year leaders, who provided their own insights into different aspects of LawSoc and their roles within the society. By listening to their own experiences, this helped me to consider how I want to make an impact for society in the future. Anthony Maros (Commerce/Law, 2nd year)

so clearly remember the first few weeks of uni, and the

anticipation that led up to law camp. Despite being nervous to be placed in a completely new scenario with people I had never met, my experience at law camp is what made my first year of law at UNSW so much more incredible. Camp provided me such a unique opportunity to meet my peers in an informal setting, where instead of talking purely about our studies, the ice had already been broken and genuine friendships began to form. I can safely say that the camps’ reputation for forming real, lifelong friendships is true. If you would love the chance to attend Law Camp 2021, it will be running in T2 2021. More information can be found on the LawSoc Facebook Page.

Without Law camp I don’t think I would have met any of the incredible people I spend my time at uni with, and I don’t believe I would feel the sense of community I feel within LawSoc. Meeting not only so many like minded first years, but also meeting people from all years of uni, has allowed for so many rewarding friendship and mentorship opportunities. Retrospectively, I feel so lucky to have attended Law Camp, particularly considering how it revealed to me all of the incredible opportunities LawSoc has for all students. Law Camp was easily one of the highlights of my 2020 and forming such genuine friendships so early in my LawSoc experience has proved to be invaluable. Ella Croasdale (Arts/Law, 2nd Year)

LAWPLUS LawPLUS is a peer mentoring program set up to help any first year or transfer student transition into their first term at UNSW law school.

e pair up new students with experienced and friendly mentors from the UNSW Law Society, who will meet up weekly to discuss life in law school, provide invaluable advice and compete in weekly challenges to win some awesome prizes! LawPLUS offers first years the chance to settle into life at law school with a supportive and fun environment. LawPLUS is a great way to get involved in the Law Society and meet others in both a supportive and friendly environment. It is strongly recommended that first year students get involved with LawPlus, given its ability to allow students to form great friendships with those not only in their year, but also those in other years. If you wish to sign up to the program or have any questions, head to the UNSW O-Week Stall or email us at lawplus@unswlawsoc.org George Raptis & Smriti Srivastava

JD/PG IMPACT MENTORING PROGRAM What is the program? The JD/PG Impact Mentoring Program is a peer mentoring program offered by the UNSW Law Society that assists new JD/PG students with successfully transitioning into law school. First year students are paired with senior mentors who are trained to help navigate the demands of law student life in a friendly group setting. The program aims to support students holistically by emphasising the importance of building a healthy social network, and provides valuable opportunities to create strong social bonds through participation in weekly group meetings. How can it best assist Law students? (particularly first years) Mentoring sessions aim to: ● Foster a support network for new students; ● Provide a platform to acquire resources and develop study skills; ● Create a safe space for students to discuss any difficulties they are encountering, and if necessary, connect them to appropriate people and/or organisations; ● Educate about mental health issues and the importance of maintaining positive mental health and lifestyle; ● Foster cross-cultural engagement and inclusiveness; and ● Provide valuable tips and tricks on succeeding in law school!

How to get involved? The program will be run during Terms 1 and 3 for a total of 5 sessions, offered both online and in-person. We plan to offer students two intakes per term to allow a greater number of students to participate in the program. Students can apply to participate in either Intake 1 which runs from Weeks 1-5, or Intake 2 which runs from Weeks 3-8 (excluding reading week). And any other relevant information/testimony “I benefited a lot from participating in the mentoring program last year as it provided me with a strong sense of community and gave me a safe space to express myself and make new friends!” “The mentoring sessions were a valuable means of support to me during the initial weeks of starting law school. Talking to my mentor about the stress and worries of 2020 helped me refocus and gave me the helping hand I needed to enjoy my law school journey.” If you wish to sign up or have any questions, please email Adriana and Rachel at jdpg.mentoring@unswlawsoc.org.

LAW REVUE

ore than just a revue – more than a theatrical comedy show that satirises topical issues through acting, singing and dance – Law Revue is a complete experience, one that’s been an integral part of the UNSW Law student community since 1976.

towards diversity, you’ll find yourself forming lasting friendships with like-minded people across year groups and degrees that you would otherwise never have met.

But don’t be fooled by its name! Being a part of Law Revue isn’t just for law students, or even students. Law Revue prides itself on being inclusive, so much so that you don’t need to have any experience in the portfolio you’re interested in, only genuine enthusiasm. With such a view

Sarah Green, Kevin Wang, Lachlan Smith

What truly sets Law Revue apart, though, isn’t just the professional development that it offers, or the Feel the fizzling adrenaline rush of being on chance to be genuinely creative at university. If stage as part of Cast or Band, or sneak around a you’ve got the inclination to test the limits of your meticulously crafted set or manoeuvre dazzling comfort zone, you might be pleasantly surprised lights as a Tech ninja. Sharpen your culinary with what you can find, and be amazed with the skills in Wellbeing, create beautiful promotional person you’ll grow into. material in Design/Publications, or post dank memes as part of the Marketing team. Whatever Law Revue Executives 2021 it is that you’re interested in, there’s a place for Directors you in Law Revue. Producers

Emma Fu, Alicia Suwahjo, Nicholas Tse

Self-growth, a family, and unforgettable memories. These were only a few of the things Law Revue gave me. As a first-year in a sea of uncertainty, it wasn’t until I found Law Revue and its diverse, open, and welcoming community, that I felt like I belonged. A place where my quirkiness was welcomed, where I could meet free-spirited friends, and be comfortable being 100% myself. What I valued the most, however, was that I didn’t need to be talented to join. Law Revue was an encouraging and supportive environment for taking risks, growing one’s confidence, and providing an outlet for one’s creative abilities. I really believe Revue is an integral part of the university experience and, having been part of the Revue family for 3 years, the experiences I’ve had have made a massive impact on who I am today. Take a leap of faith, join Law Revue, and see where it takes you. Rabiba Pervez | 4th Year Commerce/Law

I had no idea what a ‘revue’ even was when I signed on as a cast member for Law Revue over Facebook. It was just after the peak of quarantine, and I had registered for the sole reason it was an in-person event. Being alone at home isn’t easy when you love to be around people, and I signed on thinking that if Revue could give me just that, it would be enough for me. But what I got was more than I could ever conceive. The people you will meet are special; you’d have to be to spend 20 hours a week on any one thing. They will encourage you to go beyond your comfort zone and try new things you never knew about. They will be close friends, with shared interests that you could even form whole squads over. They will be trusted mentors, who can open you to new possibilities and show you your own potential back to you. Sometimes all at the same time. In short: it is a family. I encourage you to take this plunge off the deep end. This coming from someone who never performed in their life, and never believed they ever would. It can be gruelling at times, this every revuer understands, but you’ll never be alone in it. And if you remember only one thing, let it be that Law Revue is worth every second. Reid Hou | 2nd Year Economics/Law

LAWSOC AND SPORTS

NSW Law Society Sports give students access to a broad range of sporting events, allowing students to develop their personal fitness and improve their wellbeing. From social to competitive events, LawSoc Sports strongly welcomes all students, regardless of their skill level, to participate in the sporting events on offer. By participating in sporting events, students will get the opportunity to meet others with similar interests, while being in a fun and non-academic environment. Moreover, the consistent events that LawSoc Sport offers each week can help students strike a healthy uni-life balance. Each trimester, students can participate in Arc’s social sports, which include touch, netball, volleyball, soccer and Oztag. There will be a weekly walk/run club which will be followed by a coffee “warm-down”, a beach day in Term 1, beach hikes and a Wellbeing Walk across the Eastern beaches in Term 2. Furthermore, LawSoc Sports will also be entering teams into intervarsity events, Blackmores and the Colour Run. Every event is focused on being fun, social and open to all students regardless of their fitness level/ year group. Dominique Abrahamse and Hayden Gu (Sports Directors)

ttending various law balls throughout the years has definitely been a highlight of law school for me. UNSW law balls are usually held at the end of the academic year and are a night of dressing up, eating great food and dancing the night away with your peers. It is a great opportunity to celebrate the year with your friends, meet new people and make memories that last a lifetime!

LAW BALL

However, be warned tickets to the ball are notorious for selling out quickly! So, keep an eye out for tickets to be released in the middle of the year for a late September ball.

With that being said, I have attended various law balls throughout the years and it has been a highlight of law school for me. I have made the most incredible memories with my friend and I am so excited to attend my last handful The ball is usually held at the end of the of law balls! I would highly recommend any academic year and is a night of dressing up, new student to attend law ball and experience eating great food and dancing the night away the best social event of the year! listening to our very own law band and tracks from the best DJs. It is a great opportunity to celebrate the year with your friends, meet new students at various stages of their law degree and make memories that last a lifetime!

Bianca Tolic, (4th Year Commerce/Law)

LAW BAND The Law Society band is a band made up entirely of UNSW law students. The Band performs at the Society’s large social events such as Law Ball, as well as at a showcase of their own; Lawlapalooza! For more information, feel free to contact music@unswlawsoc.org

The UNSW Law Band is a particularly unique initiative that was commenced by the UNSW Law Society many over five years ago. Since then, the Law Band has established its very own annual music talent-show/showcase, Lawlapalooza. The Law Band also plays at various Society events throughout the year, namely the annual Law Ball, The Law Band allows for the band members

to pursue their passions and dreams alternative to the law, and more broadly encourages law students to do the same. As one who has both played in, and led, the law band, I strongly recommend trying out for the band this year if you are so musicallyinclined. Trust me, you won't regret it! Madison Wu (5th Year, Music/Law)

WELLBEING he transition to studying Law at UNSW presents a range of new and exciting possibilities and challenges. It is essential that students are provided with ample support to adapt and thrive.

In 2021, the Wellbeing Portfolio is determined to ensure that both physical and mental wellbeing remains a core focus of life at UNSW Law. Many initiatives will be run throughout the year, such as weekly Wellbeing Wednesday posts, Wellness Weeks in each trimester, an annual Mental Health Day. If you would like to hear more about the Wellbeing portfolio, resources for students, or would just like to reach out, please contact us at wellbeing.director@unswlawsoc.org.au

If you are passionate about promoting wellbeing and eager to make a difference within our university community, we strongly encourage you to apply to become a Wellbeing Warrior. This is a unique opportunity to join LawSoc’s only subcommittee, play an active role in Wellbeing initiatives, and make long-lasting friendships. Applications open soon, so keep an eye out on the LawSoc Facebook page for an official announcement.

owever, the wellbeing of students doesn’t just begin and end with our portfolio. There are a range of services available to students who are in need of support. Most notably, Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides valuable on-campus assistance to all students by offering free and confidential counselling services with experienced psychologists. Equitable Learning Services and Special Considerations both provide assistance in ensuring that your personal circumstances do not adversely impact your studies and assessments. Other external bodies such as headspace, Beyond Blue, Lifeline and medical professionals (including your GP), also offer crucial support in enhancing mental health. Kate Morel and Hayden Clift, Wellbeing Directors

UNSW Law Journal The University of New South Wales Law Journal (‘UNSW Law Journal’) is one of Australia’s leading academic legal journals, and one of the few to be produced entirely by a voluntary student board. It is the flagship publication of the UNSW Law School and one of the most widely cited legal reviews in Australia. The Journal publishes four issues annually. There are two General Issues and two part-Thematic Issues, with the latter focusing and bringing together a range of perspectives on selected legal topics. Each Issue of the Journal is launched with a formal evening held at the offices of one of our premier sponsors, including leading law firms Allens, Herbert Smith Freehills and King & Wood Mallesons. Launch events are widely attended and feature invited speakers who are national or international leaders in the legal profession. Previous speakers include the Hon Robert French AC, former Justice of the High Court, the Hon David Hammerschlag, Justice of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, the Hon Michelle Gordon AC, Justice of the High Court and the Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG. The Editorial Board is the body of students responsible for the production of the UNSW Law Journal.

The responsibilities of General Members of the Editorial Board include: •

Editing papers from leading legal academics, practitioners and judicial officers that are selected for publication in the Journal; and

•

Attending meetings of the Editorial Board, Journal Issue launches, dinners and other social events.

After serving as a General Member of the Board, students also have the opportunity to stand for election to the Executive Committee and assume editorial responsibility for the publication of the Journal. Course credit is awarded for these positions. Recruitment to the Editorial Board is conducted each year. In 2021, applications will open in Term One. While a strong interest in editing academic articles is essential, prior editing experience is not. For more information, please visit: http://www.unswlawjournal.unsw.edu.au/recruitment-tothe-editorial-board/ Tina Wu Executive Editor of the UNSW Law Journal Final year Media (Communication & Journalism)/Law

UNSW LAW BOARD

NSW Law comprises the Law School and a range of research, education and advocacy centres. UNSW Law is governed by the Faculty Board which is composed of fulltime academic staff, casual teaching staff as well as various nominees and student representatives. The Faculty Board is also governed by a number of subcommittees such as the International Committee and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee which report to the board on a range of matters. Student representatives in the law school are the key point of communication between the academic, administrative and student sectors of the law school. They have a say on the nature of governance of the faculty, acting as advocates and voicing the concerns of the student body to the committee. Students may contact their representatives collectively at law-studentreps@lists.unsw.edu.au. If your concerns relate to an issue for which there is a specific faculty committee you might want to indicate this in the subject line of your email.

The student representatives for 2020/2021 are: Isaac Dela Torre (Undergraduate Student Representative) Alexander Humphreys (Undergraduate Student Representative) Tony Wu (Undergraduate Student Representative) Laura Boshier Eggins (Juris Doctor Student Representative) Abida Aura (Juris Doctor Student Representative) Angela Kintominas (Phd and Research Student Representative)

Voting is held in Trimester 1 for the 2021/2022 board.

EXCHANGE

was lucky enough to begin my exchange in Term 1 2020 at the University of Manchester. I had an incredible few months of learning (both academically and culturally), travelling, and living independently before COVID-19 sent me home! Planning for exchange took plenty of time, energy and coordination with the UNSW Exchange Office, but the short experience I was able to have was well worth it. It’s definitely worth spending the time to research the exchange destinations available to UNSW Law students, including the university itself, subjects on offer, lifestyle in that location and opportunities for travel. UNSW Law students can apply for exchange at highly esteemed universities across Asia, the Americas, Europe and the United

Kingdom. Some of my exchange highlights include the weekend trips I was able to take across the UK (Edinburgh being my favourite by far) and forming friendships with students from across the world. I was lucky enough to go to the Manchester Derby, and for someone who isn’t a football fan, I didn’t realise how much of a big deal it was! Unfortunately, my time overseas was cut short, but I got to complete my semester abroad on ‘Zoom University’ from my quarantine bedroom! Anastasia Hatziarantinos (4th year, International Studies/Law)

Competitions • • • •

Mooting Negotiations Client Interviewing Witness Examination

MOOTING

There is no doubt that mooting has completely transformed my university experience. Mooting is an exciting extracurricular activity where participants argue their side of a fictitious legal dispute in front of judges in a simulated court hearing, allowing the opportunity to apply skills and knowledge from the classroom, such as legal research and drafting arguments, into practical scenarios. Yet my experiences in mooting competitions have also showed me the value of mooting is much more what is missed is its construction of resilience, teamwork, strategic decision-making and attention to detail. I have seen those, including myself, who are absolutely transformed for the better by their experiences in mooting; who are at first petrified at the thought of presenting oral arguments but come alive in the heat of the moot and thrive under the adversarial fire of the court. It is definitely an experience that no law student should miss! Chelsea Manansala

Mooting is a ‘mock trial’-like extracurricular competition where you play the role of a barrister presenting their case before a panel of judges in simulated appellate court proceedings. You will be given a fictional legal scenario about which you will have to research the relevant case law, analyse the legal issues, draft written submissions and present oral argument. So why moot? Well, I could ramble all day about how you’ll meet many like-minded passionate mooters, improve your legal research and oral advocacy, and how you can compete against other universities in intervarsity competitions but honestly, it’s just really fun. Your first moot will seem like a ridiculous amount of work for an extracurricular competition but the second you get up to start speaking, you’ll feel an insane rush of adrenaline that’ll make it all worth it. So if you like having fun, make sure to sign up to Beginners Mooting starting in Week 3 and if you’re even more keen, come watch one of the demonstration moots during O-Week. Nicholas Tse (3rd year, Arts/Law)

NEGOTIATIONS What is negotiations and how is it different to the other skills comps? A round consists of two teams each with two people, negotiating over a contentious fact scenario. This could be a anything from a neighbourly dispute to a commercial crisis. With greater practice and skill you can learn to develop creative solutions and negotiating tactics to progress further than other teams. Taking part in negotiations has been without a doubt one of my best decisions in University. I’ve had the opportunity to develop many friendships with competitors and phenomenal teamwork skills with my partner, Zac Morris. It’s also a great experience to test your skills against other universities’ in inter-varsity competitions, and to see how our strategy compares. Philip Kyriacou (3rd Year, Commerce/Law)

MEDIATION Being involved in the Beginners Mediation competition in 2020 was an invaluable experience, both in terms of the skills gained and friendships made. By the end of the competition, I was able to confidently ascertain key legal issues, common and/or conflicting interests and divide client/lawyer responsibilities, and had further refined my oral and written communication, conflict resolution, and professionalism. Most importantly, working alongside a mediator impressed upon me, as a negotiator, the need to be intentional in progressing through separate concerns while seeking to adapt to unexpected confidentials and reach creative solutions. I would strongly encourage all law students, especially first years, to involve themselves in the competition, for both the academic and social benefits. Ella Davidson (2nd Year, PPE Law)

CLIENT INTERVIEWING Client Interviewing is a competition that caters to all law students, irrespective of their confidence levels and experience. Students are given the opportunity to act as legal representation in a pair for a fictitious client. Ambiguous, and often humorous ‘memos’ are issued to students 48 hours before their interview, where they have 30 minutes to explore and understand social, economic and legal issues at hand. Client Interviewing is a popular competition as minimal preparation is required to succeed; less deliberation over one-sentence ‘memos’ has oftentimes been for the better… As one of the three alternative dispute resolution competitions open to students, Client Interviewing focuses on the practical application of skills developed in Law School. Whilst the application of basic legal principles can go a long way, students are encouraged to demonstrate empathy, tolerance and patience when liaising with their client. Students will learn to tailor lines of questioning that are efficient, considerate and logical. Finally, the competition is a great way to develop close friendships, regardless of whether you sign up with a friend, or with the aim of meeting a partner for the first time. Jessica Cassimaty, (Economics/Law 2nd year)

W I T N ES S EX AM INAT ION WHAT IT INVOLVES Witness Examination is a skills competition that draws upon your inner Atticus Finch to use witness testimony to prove your case. Unlike Mooting, Witness Examination relies less upon legislation and case law, and more upon the skill of questioning the witnesses.

THE PROCESS Each team consists of two barristers and one witness (who does not have to be a law student). Junior Counsel for each the Appellant and Defendant delivers an Opening Statement before the Appellant delivers their affidavit, and is subsequently cross examined by the opposition. The process then repeats for the Defendant, before Senior Counsels deliver the Closing Statements.

THE PROCESS Witness Examination will help to improve your attention to detail and ability to consider different perspectives (which is a useful approach to problem questions). The mock court environment will authenticate your role as counsel for your client. You will think effectively on your feet to defend your argument when met with a challenging set of facts and a potentially unruly witness.

TIPS 1. Do not hesitate to make an objection 3. Examination in Chief should flow like during Examination in Chief. a conversation. You are given the affidavit of the opposition’s witness. Before the trial is in session, go through and annotate where you would object and how you would justify the objection, so that you are prepared when the witness recites their statement. The aim of making an objection is not only to earn points for your team, but to strike out comments or facts that harm your case - so, do not be afraid to object.

Although Examination in Chief is much shorter than Cross Examination, it is an important display of skill. Show the judge that you are guiding the witness to explain their version of events by asking simple and precise questions. If the comments in the affidavit no longer give a direct answer to the question you have asked, you should ask a new question. This ensures the witness statement appears accurate and authentic.

2. Feel free to amend your own witness’ 4. Prepare a clear line of questioning for affidavit. Cross Examination. Unlike Mock Trial in high school, it is not a requirement for witnesses to regurgitate their affidavit word-forword. As the barrister, you may edit the statement to draw attention away from facts that harm your case and towards those that give your witness credibility; as long as you do not alter material facts.

It is important to anticipate the answer to each question before you ask it. This is best achieved when your questions are simple and prompt a yes/no response. Ensure you have mapped out different lines of questioning dependent on the witness’ potential answers. Planning will help you to think on your feet should

Subject Guides

Introducing Law and Justice (1052) Introducing Law & Justice (ILJ) provides great insight into the study of law, how the law came about and its social implications. Whilst the first half of this course may be more of a journey focused on the history of law and its evolution to today, it allows you to think about what the law was, what the law currently is and what the law should be. It is a well-known fact that the workload and the pressures of class participation may seem intimidating, but at the law school, there are many areas of support such as your lecturers and peer mentors who are more than happy to help. Just remember that the purpose of ILJ, is to teach you these fundamental legal skills and techniques, not to perfect them! In fact, you get marks for just sharing your thoughts in CP! You are here to learn and develop these skills and the confidence in using them. In addition, you also have legal research tutorials, and these are just equally as important! Whilst they may seem mundane as you learn the various and often perplexing techniques in finding cases and other legal sources, it is considered one of the most valuable assets that you will need as a law student and future legal practitioner. Ultimately, ILJ provides you with a great crash course into law school, allowing you the opportunity to make friends, participate in extra-curricular activities and most of all, enjoy the intellectual study of law and life at law school! Lucas Yang (Commerce/Law 3rd Year)

Public Law (1141) Public law is quite a content heavy course, as opposed to the traditional ‘black letter’ law courses. In order to do well in this course, it is imperative that the readings as well as the focus questions are completed weekly. Whilst completing readings, it will be useful to create an organised set of notes per topic, which outlines an explanation of the public law area explored, the different arguments presented by judges in case law and positions of judges and the arguments made by each academic article provided in the readings. To succeed in this course as a whole, it is important that you are able to explain the pros and cons of each system explored as well as other possible options. This can be done by understanding historical developments, looking at modern day examples and linking each concepts to previous ones and using those theories to develop an argument. In preparing for your mid-term test, you should develop your views on the topics; legal and political constitutionalism, rule of law, parliamentary sovereignty, indigenous sovereignty, representative and responsible government, separation of powers, judicial review, federalism and constitutional conventions. Preparing paragraphs on these ideas, attempting to find links between the concepts where possible and completing all focus questions will allow you to be well-placed in the mid-term. Amal Naser (Criminology/Criminal Justice 3rd Year)

Crime and the Criminal Process (1021) Crime and the Criminal Process is the first of two parts in UNSW Law’s organisation of teaching criminal law, the second being Criminal Laws. This first subject focuses on the interaction between society and the criminal justice system. Initially, it emphasises themes of criminalisation and police powers, before honing in on more specific drugs and public order offences. The content is wide-ranging, so the best way to keep up is to try and stay on top of the readings. While the reading is relatively light (about 20 pages per class), there are lots of sources in the textbook. The cases are especially important, so you can analogise with them in the problem question. Assessments consist of class participation, a court report and a final exam. For the report, research is important. The exam tests many skills, with a problem question testing police powers and offences, another requiring students to identify offence elements, and a normative essay question based on hypothetical legislation. The best way to do well is to untangle all details and characters and revise how criminal offences are structured. Overall, the course can stimulate interesting class discussions about law and society. One highlight involves the class discussing whether certain profanity is offensive, leading to extensive use of profanity in class. It’s definitely possible to stay organised and have fun. Garrick Wong

Private Law (1150)

Private Law is divided into two components; Contract formation and property law. Unlike other first year subjects, this course has three textbooks; Contracts Casebook, Contract Textbook and the UNSW Custom Publication.When it comes to Principles of Private Law, the law lies in the cases. Lecturers will no doubt ask, “what was this case about?”. I have always found this as the perfect opportunity to earn class participation marks by describing and explaining the facts, issues and ratio of cases. I recommend compiling ‘case notes’ on the main issues of cases and its implications on contract or property law. Also, don’t ever be afraid of asking questions about hypothetical scenarios in class, no question is too silly! In fact, I found this to help solidify my understanding of the relevant principles.Secondly, I highly recommend reading the Contracts Textbook, as I find it clearly explains the relevant principles and contract law cases much easier than the Case Book. The Contracts textbook is commonly prescribed as ‘supplementary readings’, which is often overlooked by students as an added burden on top of compulsory readings.Nevertheless, I found it very valuable in extracting the relevant principles of cases and a summary of the relevant law. I recommend making a short summary of the contract law concepts by reading the Textbook, and then moving onto identifying the application of the concepts in the Case Book. If you’re really short on time, prioritise readings from the Contracts Textbook. Noor Chirenian (Second Year Comm/Law)

Torts (1141) Moving from Introducing Law and Justice to Torts, this course will provide you with an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. As with the foundation course, Torts requires you to read and analyse theoretical articles to evaluate the merits of the law as it stands. However, you will also receive a glimpse into the work that lawyers are tasked with, as you will be required to resolve increasingly complex, legal scenarios than the ones posed before you in ILJ. Delving into the world of negligence and private nuisance, you will gain a greater grasp of the intricacies of the Civil Liability Act and fulfil your life-long desire to read Donoghue v Stevenson – the full details of which may come as a surprise to you. To provide a few words of advice, • Read through each case, note down its distinctive facts and the application of legal principles to those facts. Though the facts will inevitably vary in each matter, it is useful to consider how each legal principle can be interpreted and applied – bearing in mind the slightest change in detail. Considering these details will enable you to analyse the problem question to a greater extent in an assignment or exam and excel. • Truly engage with the theoretical articles that are provided to you. Do not just quote or paraphrase an idea without truly understanding its meaning. Read them a few times to form your own interpretations and arguments, before setting out to integrate them within your essay. You will find that you will be rewarded for your originality. • Understand the material being taught to you in each lecture. Though this goes without saying, it is important that you understand how each legal principle is to be applied and the meaning of each and every word. This is particularly the case given the extent to which you must apply the law to legal scenarios in this course – if you are confused about a certain provision or word, you cannot form a logical and coherent argument. Don’t be afraid to put forward your arguments during class participation and make mistakes, as this will only help clarify your understanding of the material. Vanessa Luong Third Year | Commerce/Law

ENROLMENT TIPS The enrolment process is the Law School’s most stressful/confusing time, and so it makes sense to provide some guidelines to how to get into the class you want, and the lecturer you desire. • Plan your timetable ahead of time • Check your course program outline to know exactly which courses you need to enrol in via the online UNSW handbook (if there is any doubt about this, contact students services and inquire about your specific degree plan requirements). Check out the website ‘crossangles.app’, the unofficial timetable creator for UNSW courses. • Update your personal details on myUNSW before the enrolment appointment • Log into myUNSW a day or two before the scheduled timetable appointment and update your personal details by clicking ‘My Student Profile’, then ‘Update Your Enrolment’. You will then need to confirm your home address, emergency details etc. It is important to do this before your enrolment appointment because you don’t want to be stuck updating your details when everyone else is snapping up classes. • Log into myUNSW at the exact time of your enrolment appointment • Even one minute too early will be enough to bar you from enrolling until you re-login. Avoid this at all costs as it is highly likely that whilst you are re-logging in, your fellow classmates are filling up the spots in the class that you wanted. • Enrol in your law subjects first • Generally, enrolment spaces for other subjects are much less competitive, so prioritise our law subjects. • Other subjects are also likely to have students with a later appointment time/date than law students, so their availability is likely to be a lot larger than your relatively ‘small’ law classes in comparison. • If you miss out on the spot you wanted and the class is full, check class utilisation throughout the break. • It is likely that a spot will free up as it is not uncommon for students to change classes. You just need to be ready to grab that spot when the time comes!

STUDENT LEGAL EDUCATION GROUP The Student Legal Education Group (SLEG) was founded by UNSW Law students and has been dedicated to promoting social justice for over 30 years. We seek to equip schools and members of the community with the knowledge to understand, engage with and access the law in a practical context. Over the years, SLEG has grown as an organisation to expand our capacity to improve legal literacy across local and regional communities. In 2019, SLEG partnered with Youth Law Australia through their TeachLaw program. Youth Law Australia is Australia’s only national, technology-based community legal service, to provide high quality and accurate legal information to all our participants and increase our impact across NSW. We continue to work closely with Youth Law Australia in the development and presentation of our modules.

LAWKIPEDIA 2021 Edited by Anvi Kohli, Michael Vamiadakis, Annie Xiao & Alina Pletneva

Lawkipedia 2021

Articles inside

JD/PD Impact Mentoring Program

ILJ/Private Law

Enrolment Tips

Crime & Criminal Process/Public Law

Torts

LawPlus

Law Camp

Excelling at University

Arriving as a Juris Doctor Student

Arriving as a High School Student

Arriving as a Transfer Student

Presidents’ Welcome

Skills Portfolio

Arriving as an International Student