LLAW9614 Advanced Legal Research

This topic builds on the basic research skills developed in previous topics and equips students with advanced legal research skills, including using legal databases, quantitative and qualitative analysis. It also exposes students to emerging developments in data analytics and predictive analysis, artificial intelligence and algorithmic decision-making.

This topic aims to:

• Provide students with advanced legal research skills, including the capacity to critically evaluate the results of databases searches
• Provide students with knowledge of quantitative and qualitative analysis as it applies to legal research
• Provide students with the skills to critically evaluate the use of data analytics and automated decision-making technology

1. demonstrate a capacity for undertaking
   (a) undertaking advanced legal research; and
   (b) critically evaluate the results of the research.

2. demonstrate ability to:
   (a) understand approaches to ethical decision making;
   (b) recognise and reflect upon, and a developing ability to respond to, ethical issues likely to arise in professional contexts;
   (c) recognise and reflect upon the professional responsibilities of lawyers in promoting justice and in service to the community; and
   (d) exercise professional judgment,
   in the context of advanced legal research.

3. demonstrate ability to:
   (a) identify and articulate complex legal issues;
   (b) apply legal reasoning and research to generate appropriate jurisprudential and practical responses to legal issues;
   (c) engage in critical analysis and make reasoned and appropriate choices amongst alternatives, and
   (d) demonstrate sophisticated cognitive and creative skills in approaching legal issues and generating appropriate responses,
   in the context of advanced legal research.

4. demonstrate intellectual and practical skills needed to justify and interpret theoretical propositions, legal methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions, as well as to identify, research, evaluate and synthesise relevant factual, legal and policy issues in the context of advanced legal research;

5. demonstrate ability to:
   (a) communicate in ways that are effective, appropriate and persuasive for legal and non-legal audiences; and
   (b) collaborate effectively,
   in the context of advanced legal research.

6. demonstrate ability to:
   (a) learn and work with a high level of autonomy, accountability and professionalism, and
   (b) reflect on and assess their own capabilities and performance, and make use of feedback as appropriate, to support personal and professional development.