Sunday, March 15, 2009

Words From Cambridge LLM Grad

Hi Jun Hong:

Thanks for the email. In a nutshell, securing good results for the LLB degree depends on hard work and consistency, but most importantly good exam technique. I would not say that the LLB is extremely tough, but you should realise there is considerably less spoon feeding in UK universities. I should also note that to secure a particular result (e.g. 1st class) at Brookes you need to score an average of 70% over all subjects you take, so it may be a bit more difficult compared to universities which have a 'technical' marking convention (e.g. Four 1sts out of 8 subjects = overall 1st). 

If i may offer some advice, I think the most important thing for a law student to bear in mind is that the law is all about words and phrases, so you might find it beneficial to improve your English as much as possible. As you are still in pre-u, I wouldn't worry too much about Brookes or life in UK yet, but would concentrate on getting a good foundation in law during your 1st year, and try to get some legal work experience at law firms etc. It would be a good idea to build up a good CV from early on.

Grammar plays a very very important part in legal studies. The ability to express yourself well in English is a good examination technique, and I think it is even more important than just knowing what the law is. But I also agree that reading is important - it doesn't have to be law, just english books in general. To that I will add: do not be afraid to speak more often in English. Always remember that words are a lawyer's weapon.

I can only say that practice makes perfect. I'm sure you're familiar with the phrase 玉不琢不成器. There is still time to improve. Don't get discouraged and stay focused.

There is no use knowing so much vocabulary if you can't use it for your benefit. Law exams are not a game of scrabble. It is a test of understanding the law and applying them to the facts.  Remember that examiners want to know what the reasons for your conclusion are. Those reasons can only be properly understood if they are expressed in good grammar, and not by some fanciful vocabulary which the examiners might not even understand themselves. Good grammar ensures that people who read what you write will always understand what you are trying to say. 

Simple English is enough, as long as you cite the correct legal authorities, and give your reasons for your conclusions. My opinion is that the examiners are only looking at two main factors: whether you know the correct law, and whether you have your own opinion. 

You should bear in mind that the nature of the work of a lawyer: he provides a service to his client, and achieving his client's objectives is not easy, and can be ugly. You should consider whether you want to become a practicing lawyer or for example an academic. Life in practice is definitely not going to be easy or pleasant.


Regards,
LLB First Class Honours in Oxford Brookes University 
LLM from University of Cambridge , UK.
A Member of Middle Temple.


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