LLH201 Legal Research
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | LLH201 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | LLB105 or LLB107 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $2,124 |
| Pre-2021 CSP student contribution | $1,663 The pre-2021 commonwealth supported place (CSP) contribution amount only applies to students enrolled in a course prior to 2021. To learn more, visit our Understanding your fees page. |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $3,204 |
| International unit fee | $4,368 |
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2025, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | LLH201 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | LLB107 |
| Coordinator: | Margie Young | margie.young@qut.edu.au |
Overview
In this unit, you will develop problem-solving and research skills and apply them to ill-defined problems. You will also have the opportunity to reflect on your career goals and strategically build your skills to enhance your employability. You will then have the opportunity to reflect on and expand your research skills in LLH402 Legal Research Project and your career goals in LLH403 Legal Industry Capstone Project.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify the issues in ill-defined legal problems and plan, undertake and reflect on the research process and the use of appropriate methodologies, including Generative AI, to locate key legal authorities (CLOs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3)
- Analyse and apply the law to factual scenarios to reach conclusions to clients' legal problems and use professional judgment to make recommendations supported by your research findings (CLO 2.1, 3.3)
- Communicate clearly and professionally in writing, adhering to citation requirements (CLO 4.1)
- Self-assess and reflect on current capabilities to identify strategies to progress as an independent learner and to develop skills needed for your future career (CLO 5.2)
Content
The content of this unit includes:
- Introduction to legal research, including legal issue identification, structuring arguments, written communication, logic and reasoning, and research methodologies,
- The use of digital technologies and Generative AI in legal research,
- Skills practice in Generative AI prompt engineering for legal research,
- Research skills practice incorporating for example, Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander perspectives,
- Strategic career planning and reflection, and
- Academic integrity and academic honesty.
Learning Approaches
This unit employs an active, co-operative and collaborative approach to learning. It involves an online, self-led learning practice and live tutorials where you will learn from experts and your peers. Prior to tutorials, you will be supported and engaged in this unit through the delivery of weekly snapshots of unit material, podcasts delivered by experts, interactive quizzes and formative learning activities, and collaborative discussions that will introduce a range of practical and theoretical perspectives.
Your participation in this unit will include:
- Discussions on Canvas and in live tutorials
- Collaboration with peers and experts to network and share your understandings
- Independent review of key concepts via online resources and materials
- Preparation for live collaborative tutorials through weekly online podcasts to promote an understanding of the content and theory behind the skills you are developing
- Participation in live weekly collaborative tutorials that allow you to develop and practice your skills in applying the law to fact scenarios and legal problem solving, research methodologies, statutory interpretation and communication. The collaborative tutorials will be available live or as a recording
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You are provided with feedback to assist your learning throughout the semester. The feedback is provided through:
- The discussions in the live interactive tutorials
- Online discussion forums
- Example of assessment items
- The individual feedback provided on assessment with the completed Criteria Referenced Assessment form
- Generic feedback posted on the unit's Canvas for each item of assessment
- The option of consultation with a member of the teaching team.
Assessment
Overview
In this unit students are graded on a scale of one to seven.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Career Plan
You will reflect on your skill development in the course to date and identify strategies for further development in preparation for your future career.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Task and Reflection
Acting as a trainee solicitor, you will analyse an ill-defined problem and undertake preliminary research using both traditional research databases and Generative AI tools in order to provide an internal memo that accurately identifies legal issues, key authorities, and what additional information is needed from the client. You will also reflect on your experience of using Generative AI and how Generative AI can be used effectively as a tool for legal research.
You are permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for specific purposes in this assessment task. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information. Any unathorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Memorandum of Advice
In your role as a trainee solicitor, you will consider the additional information provided by your senior partner in response to your internal memo (assessment 2). In light of this information, you will analyse relevant legal issues and any additional requirements and identify and undertake further research. You will organise and synthesise your research findings in order to complete a memorandum of advice that proposes possible solutions and makes recommendations for your client. Your memorandum of advice must include correct citation of relevant legal sources.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Bruce Bott and Ruth Talbot-Stokes, Nemes and Coss' Effective Legal Research (LexisNexis Butterworths, 8th ed, 2021)
DC Pearce and RS Geddes, Statutory Interpretation in Australia (LexisNexis, 10th ed, 2023)
Jay Sanderson and Kim Kelly, A Practical Guide to Legal Research (Thomson Reuters, 5th ed, 2020)
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual risks in this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.LW36 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW37 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW38 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW39 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying the law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2025, Online
| Unit code: | LLH201 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | LLB107 |
Overview
In this unit, you will develop problem-solving and research skills and apply them to ill-defined problems. You will also have the opportunity to reflect on your career goals and strategically build your skills to enhance your employability. You will then have the opportunity to reflect on and expand your research skills in LLH402 Legal Research Project and your career goals in LLH403 Legal Industry Capstone Project.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify the issues in ill-defined legal problems and plan, undertake and reflect on the research process and the use of appropriate methodologies, including Generative AI, to locate key legal authorities (CLOs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3)
- Analyse and apply the law to factual scenarios to reach conclusions to clients' legal problems and use professional judgment to make recommendations supported by your research findings (CLO 2.1, 3.3)
- Communicate clearly and professionally in writing, adhering to citation requirements (CLO 4.1)
- Self-assess and reflect on current capabilities to identify strategies to progress as an independent learner and to develop skills needed for your future career (CLO 5.2)
Content
The content of this unit includes:
- Introduction to legal research, including legal issue identification, structuring arguments, written communication, logic and reasoning, and research methodologies,
- The use of digital technologies and Generative AI in legal research,
- Skills practice in Generative AI prompt engineering for legal research,
- Research skills practice incorporating for example, Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander perspectives,
- Strategic career planning and reflection, and
- Academic integrity and academic honesty.
Learning Approaches
This unit employs an active, co-operative and collaborative approach to learning. It involves an online, self-led learning practice and live tutorials where you will learn from experts and your peers. Prior to tutorials, you will be supported and engaged in this unit through the delivery of weekly snapshots of unit material, podcasts delivered by experts, interactive quizzes and formative learning activities, and collaborative discussions that will introduce a range of practical and theoretical perspectives.
Your participation in this unit will include:
- Discussions on Canvas and in live tutorials
- Collaboration with peers and experts to network and share your understandings
- Independent review of key concepts via online resources and materials
- Preparation for live collaborative tutorials through weekly online podcasts to promote an understanding of the content and theory behind the skills you are developing
- Participation in live weekly collaborative tutorials that allow you to develop and practice your skills in applying the law to fact scenarios and legal problem solving, research methodologies, statutory interpretation and communication. The collaborative tutorials will be available live or as a recording
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You are provided with feedback to assist your learning throughout the semester. The feedback is provided through:
- The discussions in the live interactive tutorials
- Online discussion forums
- Example of assessment items
- The individual feedback provided on assessment with the completed Criteria Referenced Assessment form
- Generic feedback posted on the unit's Canvas for each item of assessment
- The option of consultation with a member of the teaching team.
Assessment
Overview
In this unit students are graded on a scale of one to seven.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Career Plan
You will reflect on your skill development in the course to date and identify strategies for further development in preparation for your future career.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Task and Reflection
Acting as a trainee solicitor, you will analyse an ill-defined problem and undertake preliminary research using both traditional research databases and Generative AI tools in order to provide an internal memo that accurately identifies legal issues, key authorities, and what additional information is needed from the client. You will also reflect on your experience of using Generative AI and how Generative AI can be used effectively as a tool for legal research.
You are permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for specific purposes in this assessment task. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information. Any unathorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Memorandum of Advice
In your role as a trainee solicitor, you will consider the additional information provided by your senior partner in response to your internal memo (assessment 2). In light of this information, you will analyse relevant legal issues and any additional requirements and identify and undertake further research. You will organise and synthesise your research findings in order to complete a memorandum of advice that proposes possible solutions and makes recommendations for your client. Your memorandum of advice must include correct citation of relevant legal sources.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Bruce Bott and Ruth Talbot-Stokes, Nemes and Coss' Effective Legal Research (LexisNexis Butterworths, 8th ed, 2021)
DC Pearce and RS Geddes, Statutory Interpretation in Australia (LexisNexis, 10th ed, 2023)
Jay Sanderson and Kim Kelly, A Practical Guide to Legal Research (Thomson Reuters, 5th ed, 2020)
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual risks in this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.LW36 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW37 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW38 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW39 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying the law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | LLH201 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | LLB107 |
| Coordinator: | Margie Young | margie.young@qut.edu.au |
Overview
In this unit, you will develop problem-solving and research skills and apply them to ill-defined problems. You will also have the opportunity to reflect on your career goals and strategically build your skills to enhance your employability. You will then have the opportunity to reflect on and expand your research skills in LLH402 Legal Research Project and your career goals in LLH403 Legal Industry Capstone Project.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify the issues in ill-defined legal problems and plan, undertake and reflect on the research process and the use of appropriate methodologies, including Generative AI, to locate key legal authorities (CLOs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3)
- Analyse and apply the law to factual scenarios to reach conclusions to clients' legal problems and use professional judgment to make recommendations supported by your research findings (CLO 2.1, 3.3)
- Communicate clearly and professionally in writing, adhering to citation requirements (CLO 4.1)
- Self-assess and reflect on current capabilities to identify strategies to progress as an independent learner and to develop skills needed for your future career (CLO 5.2)
Content
The content of this unit includes:
- Introduction to legal research, including legal issue identification, structuring arguments, written communication, logic and reasoning, and research methodologies,
- The use of digital technologies and Generative AI in legal research,
- Skills practice in Generative AI prompt engineering for legal research,
- Research skills practice incorporating for example, Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander perspectives,
- Strategic career planning and reflection, and
- Academic integrity and academic honesty.
Learning Approaches
This unit employs an active, co-operative and collaborative approach to learning. It involves an online, self-led learning practice and live tutorials where you will learn from experts and your peers. Prior to tutorials, you will be supported and engaged in this unit through the delivery of weekly snapshots of unit material, podcasts delivered by experts, interactive quizzes and formative learning activities, and collaborative discussions that will introduce a range of practical and theoretical perspectives.
Your participation in this unit will include:
- Discussions on Canvas and in live tutorials
- Collaboration with peers and experts to network and share your understandings
- Independent review of key concepts via online resources and materials
- Preparation for live collaborative tutorials through weekly online podcasts to promote an understanding of the content and theory behind the skills you are developing
- Participation in live weekly collaborative tutorials that allow you to develop and practice your skills in applying the law to fact scenarios and legal problem solving, research methodologies, statutory interpretation and communication. The collaborative tutorials will be available live or as a recording
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You are provided with feedback to assist your learning throughout the semester. The feedback is provided through:
- The discussions in the live interactive tutorials
- Online discussion forums
- Example of assessment items
- The individual feedback provided on assessment with the completed Criteria Referenced Assessment form
- Generic feedback posted on the unit's Canvas for each item of assessment
- The option of consultation with a member of the teaching team.
Assessment
Overview
In this unit students are graded on a scale of one to seven.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Career Plan
You will reflect on your skill development in the course to date and identify strategies for further development in preparation for your future career.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Task and Reflection
Acting as a trainee solicitor, you will analyse an ill-defined problem and undertake preliminary research using both traditional research databases and Generative AI tools in order to provide an internal memo that accurately identifies legal issues, key authorities, and what additional information is needed from the client. You will also reflect on your experience of using Generative AI and how Generative AI can be used effectively as a tool for legal research.
You are permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for specific purposes in this assessment task. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information. Any unathorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Memorandum of Advice
In your role as a trainee solicitor, you will consider the additional information provided by your senior partner in response to your internal memo (assessment 2). In light of this information, you will analyse relevant legal issues and any additional requirements and identify and undertake further research. You will organise and synthesise your research findings in order to complete a memorandum of advice that proposes possible solutions and makes recommendations for your client. Your memorandum of advice must include correct citation of relevant legal sources.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Bruce Bott and Ruth Talbot-Stokes, Nemes and Coss' Effective Legal Research (LexisNexis Butterworths, 8th ed, 2021)
DC Pearce and RS Geddes, Statutory Interpretation in Australia (LexisNexis, 10th ed, 2023)
Jay Sanderson and Kim Kelly, A Practical Guide to Legal Research (Thomson Reuters, 5th ed, 2020)
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual risks in this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.LW36 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW37 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW38 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW39 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying the law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Online
| Unit code: | LLH201 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | LLB107 |
Overview
In this unit, you will develop problem-solving and research skills and apply them to ill-defined problems. You will also have the opportunity to reflect on your career goals and strategically build your skills to enhance your employability. You will then have the opportunity to reflect on and expand your research skills in LLH402 Legal Research Project and your career goals in LLH403 Legal Industry Capstone Project.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify the issues in ill-defined legal problems and plan, undertake and reflect on the research process and the use of appropriate methodologies, including Generative AI, to locate key legal authorities (CLOs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3)
- Analyse and apply the law to factual scenarios to reach conclusions to clients' legal problems and use professional judgment to make recommendations supported by your research findings (CLO 2.1, 3.3)
- Communicate clearly and professionally in writing, adhering to citation requirements (CLO 4.1)
- Self-assess and reflect on current capabilities to identify strategies to progress as an independent learner and to develop skills needed for your future career (CLO 5.2)
Content
The content of this unit includes:
- Introduction to legal research, including legal issue identification, structuring arguments, written communication, logic and reasoning, and research methodologies,
- The use of digital technologies and Generative AI in legal research,
- Skills practice in Generative AI prompt engineering for legal research,
- Research skills practice incorporating for example, Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander perspectives,
- Strategic career planning and reflection, and
- Academic integrity and academic honesty.
Learning Approaches
This unit employs an active, co-operative and collaborative approach to learning. It involves an online, self-led learning practice and live tutorials where you will learn from experts and your peers. Prior to tutorials, you will be supported and engaged in this unit through the delivery of weekly snapshots of unit material, podcasts delivered by experts, interactive quizzes and formative learning activities, and collaborative discussions that will introduce a range of practical and theoretical perspectives.
Your participation in this unit will include:
- Discussions on Canvas and in live tutorials
- Collaboration with peers and experts to network and share your understandings
- Independent review of key concepts via online resources and materials
- Preparation for live collaborative tutorials through weekly online podcasts to promote an understanding of the content and theory behind the skills you are developing
- Participation in live weekly collaborative tutorials that allow you to develop and practice your skills in applying the law to fact scenarios and legal problem solving, research methodologies, statutory interpretation and communication. The collaborative tutorials will be available live or as a recording
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You are provided with feedback to assist your learning throughout the semester. The feedback is provided through:
- The discussions in the live interactive tutorials
- Online discussion forums
- Example of assessment items
- The individual feedback provided on assessment with the completed Criteria Referenced Assessment form
- Generic feedback posted on the unit's Canvas for each item of assessment
- The option of consultation with a member of the teaching team.
Assessment
Overview
In this unit students are graded on a scale of one to seven.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Career Plan
You will reflect on your skill development in the course to date and identify strategies for further development in preparation for your future career.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Task and Reflection
Acting as a trainee solicitor, you will analyse an ill-defined problem and undertake preliminary research using both traditional research databases and Generative AI tools in order to provide an internal memo that accurately identifies legal issues, key authorities, and what additional information is needed from the client. You will also reflect on your experience of using Generative AI and how Generative AI can be used effectively as a tool for legal research.
You are permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for specific purposes in this assessment task. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information. Any unathorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Memorandum of Advice
In your role as a trainee solicitor, you will consider the additional information provided by your senior partner in response to your internal memo (assessment 2). In light of this information, you will analyse relevant legal issues and any additional requirements and identify and undertake further research. You will organise and synthesise your research findings in order to complete a memorandum of advice that proposes possible solutions and makes recommendations for your client. Your memorandum of advice must include correct citation of relevant legal sources.
You are not permitted to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) for any aspect of this assessment task. Any unauthorised use is a breach of the Academic Integrity policy. Please read this unit's Canvas site for more information.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Bruce Bott and Ruth Talbot-Stokes, Nemes and Coss' Effective Legal Research (LexisNexis Butterworths, 8th ed, 2021)
DC Pearce and RS Geddes, Statutory Interpretation in Australia (LexisNexis, 10th ed, 2023)
Jay Sanderson and Kim Kelly, A Practical Guide to Legal Research (Thomson Reuters, 5th ed, 2020)
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual risks in this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.LW36 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW37 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW38 Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice
LW39 Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Graduate Entry)
- Using legal reasoning and critical thinking in applying the law to legal problems and providing legal advice
Relates to: ULO2, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and using contemporary technologies to effectively search, organise and use information
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Selecting and applying appropriate research methods
Relates to: ULO1, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Planning and executing a research project and presenting findings and recommendations
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Knowing and using academic and legal writing conventions and communicating clearly, concisely and persuasively in written forms
Relates to: ULO3, Research Task and Reflection, Memorandum of Advice - Reflecting on feedback, experience and career development
Relates to: ULO4, Career Plan, Memorandum of Advice