Students to offer free legal support for community as part of new degree course

The LLB Law and Business course will have a distinctive Cornish flavour, offered by the University of Exeter Law School, or “Skol an Lagha Karesk” at the university’s Penryn Campus and inspired by the area’s historic Stannary parliament.

Students will put their legal training to use, working in the legal advice centre run at the Dracaena community centre in Falmouth, and the advice desk at the Truro Combined Court.

Students will also work with local law firms to develop their skills. They will take modules in environmental law and commercial law, to give them an awareness of how the environment is protected, and how companies are operated, managed and regulated. The course will leave them with skills in business and law needed for a variety of careers in both industries.  

Richard Edwards, Head of the University of Exeter Law School, said: “Our students will play a key role in helping the community, supporting those in need and sharing their expertise.

“This course will be uniquely Cornish. The county used to have its own stannary laws, ancient law-making combining law and business. Now in 2019 our course is a unique blend of training in law and commerce, with an emphasis on training students to be active, useful members of society who can apply their legal training in many areas.”

Dr Caroline Keenan, who will lead the course, said: “Legal aid cuts have caused difficulties for many people facing court cases in Cornwall. Now our students will help by showing people where they can find advice and support about a range of issues, including debt and housing.”

Students can join the Flamank Law Society, named after Thomas Flamank, an eminent lawyer and Cornish MP. Local firms like Murrell Associates and Stephens Scown, as well as large international law firms like Herbert Smith Freehills and Allen & Overy will work with members. Students will take part in debating and mooting events at a ‘Stannary Court’ at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus and take part in competitions further afield.

The LLB programme is accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Standards Board, and includes a series of compulsory modules which give students exemption from the academic stage of professional training. Those who wish to spend a year on an industrial placement can study the course over four years.

An Industry Advisory Group, made up of those with careers in law or industry, will ensure the teaching is informed by best practice in the workplace.