Law clinic reopens

Tue 12 January, 2016

The University of Bedfordshire Law Clinic, offering free legal advice to the general public, has reopened for 2016.

The Clinic, a student-run initiative launched by the University’s School of Law in early 2015, will also be introducing an email advice service throughout the year.

Between January and June last year, the Clinic advised 24 clients on matters ranging from housing issues, to consumer queries and problems with work.

One such client, whose name has been withheld for anonymity purposes, said: “I just wanted to say thank you for the opportunity to speak to the Law Clinic. The two students I spoke to were very professional, they put me at ease and asked questions to clarify points I’d not covered in my email; I felt that they were really considering what I was saying.”

Law students from the University offer support and guidance to clients, advising them on the legalities of the issue in question. All students have been trained in the necessary skills and techniques and are supervised by legal experts from the University.

Dr John Beaumont-Kerridge, Associate Executive Dean (International) and acting head of Department of the School of Law and Finance, said the scheme, supported by the University’s Student Experience Projects (Steps) fund, is beneficial to both the community and students.

“The Law Clinic is an excellent example of contemporary Higher Education working to provide a valuable service to the community and at the same time offering a unique experience to students.

“Always under the guidance of experienced and qualified staff, members of the public have access to free legal support on housing, consumer and employment issues. The benefit this offers to those in need is immeasurable.”

The Law Clinic offers one hour appointments, to be booked in advance, between the hours of 2pm and 5pm on specific Wednesday afternoons.

The session dates for 2016 are as follows: