Mixed Assessment Route - CILEx Portfolio - FINAL.pdf · Mixed Assessment Route candidates will be assessed in three ways: 1 A portfolio of evidence for Unit 1 Introduction to Law

Mixed AssessmentRoute

Portfolio2006/7

Institute of Legal Executives

ILEX Level 3

Professional Diploma in Law

Mission Statement

The Institute of Legal Executives (ILEX) is the professional body which represents Legal Executives and enhances their role and standing in the legal profession.

ILEX is a leading provider of comprehensive legal education and influences law reform.

Delivering Customer Service

ILEX aims to support, educate and represent its members throughout their legal career. ILEX has made a commitment to its members to improve customer service.

Customer Service Statement

• To provide comprehensive legal education

• To develop relationships with all members

• To communicate with all customers in a clear and effective manner

• To ensure that all ILEX services are subject to quality assurance

• To deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction and meet customer needs in the most effective way

• All stakeholders (members, employees, centres and suppliers) will be treated with dignity and respect

• ILEX will aim to comply at all times with its Equal Opportunities Policy

ILEX will:

• Provide clear information to all prospective students about educational opportunities

• Acknowledge enquiries within 5 working days

• Ensure all customers are aware of the complaints procedure. Complaints will be acknowledged within 3 working days and answered within 10 working days

• Ensure all students know the examination results appeals procedure. Appeals will be acknowledged within 5 working days and answered within 8 weeks, where re-marking is required

• Make every effort to ensure all documents and guidance given to students, centres and employers is clear and relevant

• Listen to customers and monitor changing needs

• Monitor needs of employers to ensure the ILEX qualification remains relevant

• Ensure each accredited centre is visited at least once every 18 months

• Acknowledge registration of new student applications within 10 working days

• Produce examination certificates within 2 weeks of result notification

• Update the syllabus each year

• Review the service processes twice a year

Conclusion

ILEX will report annually to stakeholders on performance achieved against all customer service commitments. If you wish to register a complaint regarding standards of service, please write to: ILEX Customer Service Officer, Kempston Manor, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 7AB. If you are not satisfied with the result, you can ask the Chief Executive to review your complaint.

ILEX Equal Opportunities Policy

ILEX at all times treats its customers with dignity and respect. As an Awarding Body, ILEX will ensure that its qualifications, its standards for accrediting providers of those qualifications, its examinations and other methods of assessment are designed to make study with ILEX accessible to all, regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, sex, marital status, or disability.

ILEX will ensure that it meets its commitment to equality of opportunity by monitoring and evaluating its performance against equal opportunities policy objectives, which will be set annually by the Council. ILEX will report on its performance in its Annual Report.

The Equal Opportunities policy for the Awarding Body function is under review at the time of printing and the up-to-date policy can be viewed on the ILEX website.

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ContentsIntroduction

The ILEX Portfolio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Exemptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Mixed Assessment Route Timetable for 2006/7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 A Guide to the Legal Portfolio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Unit 1 - Introduction to Law and Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Candidate Record Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 The Portfolio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 The Evidence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Candidate Evidence Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 The Role of the Assessor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 The Role of the Workshop Supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 The Role of the External Moderator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Key Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Appendices

Appendix 1: Unit 1 – Professional Diploma in Law Mixed Assessment Route syllabus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Useful Websites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Appendix 2: Portfolio Frontsheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Appendix 3: Candidate Record Sheets x 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Appendix 4: Candidate Evidence Sheets x 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Appendix 5: Assessment Summary Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Diagram of the Legal Executive Career Qualification Route

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The ILEX Portfolio

The portfolio is a name for a collection of documents and other materials, which can be used by a candidate as evidence that they have achieved competence in Unit 1: an Introduction to Law and Practice.

It is suggested that candidates complete a short Curriculum Vitae and put this at the beginning of the portfolio behind the Assessment Summary Sheet.

Guidance for candidates to help them successfully complete the ILEX portfolio.

1 Read the Portfolio Handbook thoroughly before you start compiling the portfolio.

2 Completion and submission of the portfolio to the centre assessor is your responsibility.

3 Do not leave the gathering of evidence for the portfolio too late in the course. Organisational and time management skills are very important if you are to complete the portfolio on time.

4 All sources of evidence should be clearly acknowledged and identified.

5 A variety of evidence will help you to successfully complete the portfolio. It is not acceptable to merely download material from the Internet to provide evidence.

6 The same piece of evidence may be used to cover several different elements. It is very important that you cross reference and index effectively.

7 Evidence must be presented in a professional manner.

8 If you are using evidence obtained in the workplace then you should seek permission because client confidentiality must be preserved.

9 Be selective with your evidence. The portfolio evidence must cover all the elements.

10 Your tutors will be able to provide guidance and support. If in doubt seek their guidance.

11 The portfolio is the property of the candidate. Candidates should retain their portfolio on completion of internal and/or external moderation.

This handbook is dated May 2006.

Exemptions

An exemption from completing the Mixed Assessment Route portfolio will be granted to candidates who have achieved the City & Guilds/ILEX Level 2 Certificate in Vocational Paralegal Studies with a distinction in the two Core modules, the Legal Environment (Unit 1) and General Legal Principles (Unit 2).

An exemption from completing the Mixed Assessment Route portfolio will be granted to candidates who have achieved an AS or A Level in Law with a grade E or above, and who have registered with the Institute from September 2003 onwards.

An exemption from completing the Mixed Assessment Route portfolio will be granted to candidates who have successfully completed a qualifying law degree, within the previous seven years.

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Mixed Assessment Route (MAR) Timetable for �006/7

Tuesday 3� October �006The deadline for Registration with ILEX for those commencing the Mixed Assessment Route wishing to take January 2007 Case Studies (CS). ILEX will require payment of Registration Fee, Subscription Fee and CS Fee, including completion of Registration Form and Case Study Entry Form. Any Registration Form received after this date, Tuesday 3� October �006 will not be processed in time for the January �007 Case Studies.

However, there will be a late entry period for Case Study entries. This will only apply to students who have completed and returned their Registration Form by 31 October 2006 but have not submitted a Case Study entry form. Late Case Study entry forms will be accepted from 31 October 2006 until 15 November 2006 upon payment of an additional late penalty fee of £25. Any Case Study entry form received after 15 November 2006 will not be accepted for entry in the January 2007 Case Studies.

Tuesday � January �007 Send CS to Centres Monday 8 January �007 Students to receive CS (week commencing) Monday �� January �007 Week for CS testingMonday �� February �007 Centres send sample CS scripts to ILEX Moderators Monday �6 February �007 Moderators send marked scripts back to Centres Monday �9 March �007 Centres send all CS marks for January to ILEX

Friday 30 March �007 deadline for:

� ILEX’s receipt of Registration Form, with Registration Fee, Subscription + CS Entry Form + Fee, for any student who previously failed to register and subscribe, who now wishes to enter June CS.

� Any existing student who has already registered and paid the subscription fee, but who has not paid the CS fee, and wishes to enter the June CS, must obtain a CS Entry Form from ILEX. This should be completed and sent with CS fee to reach ILEX by this deadline. ILEX will then send a CS Admission Permit showing the CS Candidate Number in time for the June CS.

Any Registration Form received after this date Friday 30 March �007 will not be processed in time for the June �007 Case Studies.

However, there will be a late entry period for Case Study entries. This will only apply to students who have completed and returned their Registration Form by the 30 March 2007 but have not submitted a Case Study entry form. Late Case Study entry forms will be accepted from 30 March 2007 until 13 April 2007 upon payment of an additional late penalty fee of £25. Any Case Study entry form received after 13 April 2007 will not be accepted for entry in the June 2007 Case Studies

Monday �� May �007 Send to CS Centres Monday 4 June �007 Students to receive CS (week commencing) Monday �8 June �007 Week for CS testingMonday �6 July �007 Centres send sample CS scripts to ILEX Moderators Monday �3 July �007 Moderators send marked CS scripts to Centres Monday �3 August �007 Centres send all CS marks for June to ILEX

Thursday � March �007 Closing date for receipt of entriesFriday 8 June �007 Examination takes place

Monday 3 September �007 Closing date for receipt of entriesFriday �9 October �007 Examination takes place

September �006 intake of Mixed Assessment Route students

January �007 Case Studies

June �007 Case Studies

Summer �007 Mixed Assessment Route Examination

Autumn �007 Mixed Assessment Route Examination

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Introduction

A Guide to the Portfolio

The ILEX Portfolio Mixed Assessment Route provides an alternative method to the examination-based scheme of studying for the ILEX Professional Diploma in Law – Examination Route: Completion of the level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and the Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law examinations, leads to Membership of ILEX.

The Mixed Assessment Route combines law and practice and offers a varied scheme of assessment. The Mixed Assessment Route can be followed by both full and part-time candidates. Work experience in a legal environment may also provide opportunities to generate evidence for the portfolio.

This handbook should be read together with the ILEX Professional Diploma in Law student handbook.

Mixed Assessment Route candidates will be assessed in three ways:

1 A portfolio of evidence for Unit 1 Introduction to Law and Practice. This portfolio will provide a foundation for candidates’ preparation for the six pre-seen Case Studies and the final examination and

2 Six pre seen Case Studies for Units 2 to 7 and

3 A final examination covering law and practice for Units 2 to 7

Please see page 5 for further details of Unit 1 Introduction to Law and Practice.

Candidates should read this portfolio handbook in conjunction with the Mixed Assessment student handbook.

This guide concentrates on the portfolio required for Unit 1 and aims to help both candidates and assessors in relation to the preparation, content and assessment of the portfolio. It contains an explanation of what evidence is required and copies of the record sheets and evidence sheets that candidates will need. Guidance is also provided on assessment, workplace supervision (or simulation) internal moderation and external moderation. The portfolio must be completed and signed by the assessor subject to external moderation before the closing dates for the candidate’s final examination entry.

Definitions

Accredited Assessment Centre (AAC):A centre approved by ILEX to run the Mixed Assessment Route. A legal office cannot normally be an AAC because of content of the course and assessment procedure. However, a legal office can provide the ideal environment for the production of Portfolio Evidence. If this cannot be arranged then a simulated experience should be provided at the AAC wherever possible.

Candidate:The person enrolled with ILEX as a student who is taking the Mixed Assessment Route. This person enters for the Case Studies and Final Examination, and must produce a Portfolio of Evidence for Unit 1 with the help and guidance of the Assessor from the AAC. The candidate may be on a full-time or part-time course of study. Full-time candidates are encouraged to arrange a period of work experience in a legal office if this is possible.

Assessor:The person/s who assesses the evidence compiled in the portfolio, the case study questions and prepares candidates for the final examination.

Workplace Supervisor:The person/s who supervises the candidate at the workplace, and checks any evidence derived from that source. A signature may be needed to ensure the authenticity of the evidence, but the assessor will decide if the evidence is satisfactory.

Internal Moderation:If more than one assessor is involved, then an internal moderation process at the AAC will need to be in place to ensure consistency of assessment standards.

External Moderation:The process by which ILEX verifies assessment procedures, moderates between centres, provides support and monitors the quality of the course provision and consistency of assessment standards.

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Unit �: Introduction to Law and Practice

The portfolio aims to demonstrate a candidate’s knowledge and understanding of each of the content elements.

Content areas Content elements

� An introduction to transferable skills a Research, verbal skills, teamwork, written communication, problem solving, personal management

� A substantive introduction a The law making process to the English legal system b The court structure c Legal Personnel and their responsibilities d Publicly Funded Legal services-civil and criminal

3 An introduction to legal method a Statutory interpretation b Judicial precedent in practice

4 Business practice and procedure a The main functions and procedures of legal office b Solicitors’ accounts c Office practice

The four content areas are divided into content elements which comprise Unit 1.

For each Content Element the candidate is provided with a Candidate Record Sheet (10 in all - see Appendix 3) which explains what the candidate must do and a Candidate Evidence Sheet (10 in all - see Appendix 4) on which the candidate must list the evidence included in the portfolio.

Candidate Record Sheets

These sheets provide candidates and assessors with an explanation of what the candidate is required to do.

You must show by your evidence that you are able to… This is a list of the objectives for each Content Element.

You must cover… The minimum requirements as to subject matter are indicated here.

You may use… Suggestions are made as to how candidates may choose to provide evidence to satisfy the requirements. Further guidance is also given.

The Portfolio

The candidate is responsible for completion and submission of the portfolio within ILEX and centre time limits.

The portfolio comprises a collection of the evidence that the candidate is providing to satisfy the requirements.

The portfolio should consist of a loose-leaf binder with dividers to separate the ten Content Elements. It should contain the following:

• Index of Evidence

• ILEX Portfolio Frontsheet (see Appendix 2)

• Assessment Summary Sheet (see Appendix 5)

• 10 sections for the 10 Content Elements each containing:

Candidate Record Sheets (see Appendix 3)

Candidate Evidence Sheets (see Appendix 4)

The Evidence

Candidates should not leave collation of the portfolio evidence until an assessment interview, or even worse, until just before the Examination entry deadline. This is likely to result in a portfolio that is poorly prepared, with gaps in the evidence and therefore does not meet the required standard.

If a portfolio has not been signed off as completed by the assessor subject to external moderation, if appropriate, a candidate cannot be entered for the final examination.

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The Evidence

Every piece of evidence should be given a short title, date and reference number. Candidates should list all evidence titles and reference numbers in the Index of Evidence. The evidence itself should be filed in the most relevant section of the portfolio with the title and reference number entered on the Candidate Evidence Sheet. If the same evidence is used to satisfy other Performance Criteria then the same title and reference number can be inserted. There is no need to include more than one copy of the same evidence.

Candidates must provide evidence which is referenced and demonstrates their knowledge and understanding and not just reproduce text and materials. Candidates must not merely download materials from the Internet. They should highlight key points, produce summaries or answer questions on the material to demonstrate their understanding. Evidence can be derived from a variety of sources, including the workplace, voluntary work, training programmes, other ILEX units or coursework at the AAC. It can be used to support knowledge of law and practice and may take a variety of forms, for example:

• direct observation of the candidate’s performance by the assessor or workplace supervisor

• simulation exercises

• role play, moots or mock trials

• individual, group or teamwork exercises

• audio/video recordings completed by the assessor/tutor or candidate

• projects/experiments

• interviews, appraisal reports, references

• completed Case Studies, tests or other assessments

• visits (e.g. Courts, Tribunals, Land Registry, Legal Services Commission)

• copies of letters, memos, reports or plans

• questionnaires, aide memoirs, checklists or summaries

The candidate must ensure that the evidence is valid and will satisfy the requirements in full. Candidates should not rely entirely on tasks / assignments devised by their tutor, but demonstrate responsibility for collecting their own evidence. The assessor will judge the validity of evidence in terms of:

Understanding: does the evidence demonstrate the candidate’s understanding of the subject?

Relevance: does the evidence relate to the requirements?

Sufficiency: is there enough evidence to meet all the requirements?

Authenticity: to what extent is the evidence the result of the candidate’s own efforts?

This is especially important in relation to group work and where evidence is derived from the workplace, hence the need for the Supervisor’s signature. Candidates must be prepared to answer questions demonstrating their understanding of the evidence and their contribution to the production of it. Confidentiality is a vital issue with regard to workplace evidence. Candidates must obtain permission and the Supervisor’s signature on evidence of a sensitive nature. It may be possible for materials to be submitted with key figures or names removed.

The standard of work to be achieved by candidates should be at Level 3, equivalent to A level standard. The evidence should be derived from a wide variety of sources.

Candidate Evidence Sheets

Candidates must complete these sheets to identify the evidence they have provided to meet each of the requirements. They should indicate briefly in the box the title of the evidence and cite the index number allocated to it. The Assessor must be able to see clearly what evidence the candidate is submitting to satisfy which requirements. The box must then be signed by the Assessor if the evidence is satisfactory.

The assessments of these sheets are then transposed to the Assessment Summary Sheet (see Appendix 5) which is placed at the beginning of the Portfolio for the assessor and or external moderator to sign off prior to the Final Examination entry deadline.

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The Role of the Assessor

• Inform the Centre Liaison Officer as soon as possible confirming the number of candidates and the course details (length of course, full-time or part-time) and whether the centre is a new provider

• Ensure that the candidate understands the requirements of Unit 1

• Guide the candidate as to how to obtain the knowledge, understanding and the skills required

• Provide advice and support for compiling a portfolio

• Monitor the compilation and arrangement of evidence in the portfolio

• Conduct regular portfolio reviews

• Involve candidates in the assessment process by encouraging self-assessment and review

• Assess whether the evidence meets the requirements to a satisfactory standard or not

• Evaluate the evidence provided for each element

• Identify any gaps in the evidence and suggest how they may be filled

• Encourage the candidate to submit new evidence where required

• Provide guidance for workplace supervisors

• Sign all the Candidate Evidence Sheets when satisfactory evidence has been provided

• Carry out a final assessment and sign the Assessment Summary Sheet when the portfolio is complete

• Ensure the evidence demonstrates the candidate’s understanding of each unit element. This could include, but is not limited to the following: directed coursework, tests, interviews, assignments, summaries of key points and completion of gapped handouts

• Ensure, if there is more than one assessor involved, that there is an internal moderation process in place. A copy of the centre’s internal moderation policy must be submitted to the Centre Liaison Officer for approval

• Liaise with the external moderator, provide samples of work as required either to the external moderator or ILEX, and ensure final moderation can take at least a month before the examination entry date in the year in which the candidate wishes to take the Final Examination

The Role of the Workplace Supervisor

This will apply only if the candidate is in employment or is able to arrange a period of work experience in a legal office.

The candidate should explain to the Workplace Supervisor the nature and function of the portfolio, and how evidence will be required to satisfy each of the requirements. Clients confidentiality must be ensured. Evidence of a sensitive or confidential nature should be signed by the supervisor, and a comment on authenticity would help the assessor judge the validity of the evidence when the assessment is made.

The Role of the External Moderator

• Most external moderation will be conducted on a remote sampling basis. Centres will send to ILEX an agreed sample of portfolios. However, if deemed necessary by ILEX or requested by the AAC an external moderation visit will take place. This visit, where the external moderator will meet the assessor, will usually take place two months before the examination entry closing date. All new centres will receive a visit from an external moderator or an ILEX member of staff.

• If possible meet candidates

• If appropriate view the environment in which the candidate is working

• Check that the assessment procedure is in order and that assessments are fair and consistent

• Where possible resolve any disputes between candidates and assessors. If a candidate wishes to appeal against a portfolio assessment decision, they should do so in writing to the Head of Education within three weeks of the decision. A candidate must notify their centre assessor before they appeal to the Head of Education

• Sign the Assessment Summary Sheets to demonstrate completion of the portfolio to a satisfactory standard

• Obtain feedback from all parties concerned as to the workability and effectiveness of the portfolio scheme

• Moderate a representative sample in relation to other AACs

• Submit a report to ILEX

*ILEX reserves the right to visit an AAC.

Key skills

ILEX has signposted opportunities throughout the Professional Diploma in Law Mixed Assessment Route for candidates to obtain evidence for some key skills in Communication and Information Technology. ILEX course tutors have been sent a copy of the ILEX Key Skills Guidance for Centres 2006-7. The provision and delivery of key skills will vary in centres and candidates should seek further information from their ILEX course tutor.

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Appendix �

Level 3 Professional Diploma in law – Mixed Assessment Route SyllabusUnit � Introduction to Law and Practice

This Unit will be assessed by a Portfolio of evidence compiled throughout the course. The Portfolio will be centre based and assessed (subject to Institute moderation).

Aims and Learning Outcomes

A To acquire an understanding of the legal profession, legal system and legal method.

B To develop the practice related skills needed to complete the course satisfactorily.

C To have an understanding of office practice and procedure which is particularly relevant to working in a solicitor’s office.

On completion of this unit candidates will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the English Legal System.

• Identify and apply the main Rules of Conduct relating to a solicitor’s practice.

• Identify how a client will meet the cost of legal advice in a range of scenarios.

Content Guidance Notes

This provides an introduction to the course. The content is pervasive in nature and candidates should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the transferable skills throughout the course and in the case studies.The transferable skills are a tool to help the candidate complete the course. Skills to be covered include: research, verbal skills, team work, written communication, problem solving, personal management. Development of letter writing skills is essential: headings, grammar, layout, ‘client friendly’ language.

Candidates should understand how custom, case law, statute and delegated legislation operate and interrelate; they should understand the development of the Common Law and Equity, the impact of European Law and the British Constitution in outline.

Candidates should understand in outline the Civil and Criminal Court structures, the roles of the appellate Courts, the European Courts of Justice and the European Court of Human Rights, the role of tribunals.

Candidates should understand the training routes of Solicitors, Barristers and Legal Executives. Candidates should understand the impact of the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990 on the professions.Candidates should understand the importance and relevance of the Solicitors Practice Rules; Solicitor’s liability for the acts of those in his/her employment; negligence; the role of the Office for the Supervision of Solicitors; skill and care; client care; confidentiality; conflict; undertakings.

Candidates should understand the main provisions of civil Publicly Funded Legal Services and criminal Publicly Funded Legal Services (including legal help and help at court, the Duty Solicitor Scheme, representation at court, the statutory charge); the basic criteria for each; franchising and contracting; awareness of the criticisms of the system and reforms; conditional fee arrangements (dealt with in further depth in other Units as appropriate). Candidates should have an awareness of the main Publicly Funded Legal Services application forms.

� An introduction to transferable skills which are to be assessed within the portfolio: legal research, verbal skills, written communication, team work, problem solving and personal management

� A substantive introduction to the legal system:

a The law making process

b The court structure

c Legal personnel and their responsibilities

d Publicly Funded Legal Services - Civil and Criminal

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Some elements of this unit may be covered by practical exercises which will also assist in further skills development.

Candidates should understand the role of the Courts in the interpretation of statutes, the main rules relating to statutory interpretation, internal and external aids, presumptions, Interpretation Act 1978.

Candidates should understand the doctrine of stare decisis; how precedent works; the difference between distinguishing, disapproving, overruling and reversing a decision. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to distinguish the ratio decidendi from the obiter dictum of a judgment.Candidates should be aware of the main texts found in legal offices/libraries: Halsbury’s Laws of England, Law Reports, Current Law, Precedent books; the main practitioner texts in each subject area.Candidates should demonstrate the ability to undertake basic legal research using a selection of the range of texts.Candidates should demonstrate the ability to solve legal problems from given fact scenarios.

Candidates should understand the function of the accounts department, the role of the fee earner and support staff; diarising of events, time recording, file storage, office technology. Discussion of solicitors’ duties.

Candidates should understand the importance of the Solicitors Accounts Rules. Candidates should achieve a working knowledge of Rule 15.Candidates should understand the difference between contentious and non contentious business; billing, time costing and the Solicitors Remuneration Order 1994.

Candidates should demonstrate competence in this area by producing evidence in the portfolio.

Useful Websites

Organisation Website

Bar Council ................................................www.barcouncil.org.ukCommunity Legal Service .............................www.justask.org.ukCompanies House .......................................www.companieshouse.gov.ukCrown Prosecution Service ...........................www.cps.gov.ukCriminal Justice System ...............................www.cjsonline.orgDepartment for Constitutional Affairs .............www.dca.gov.ukDirectgov ..................................................www.direct.gov.ukEmployment Tribunal ..................................www.employmenttribunals.gov.ukEqual Opportunities Commission ...................www.eoc.org.ukEuropean Commission and its UK Office .........Europa.eu.int and www.cec.org.ukEuropean Court of Human Rights ..................www.echr.coe.intEuropean Parliament (UK office) ...................www.europarl.org.ukHMSO .......................................................www.legislation.hmso.gov.ukHome Office ...............................................www.homeoffice.gov.ukInstitute of Legal Executives .........................www.ilex.org.ukLand Registry .............................................www.landreg.gov.ukLaw Society ...............................................www.lawsociety.org.ukLegal Services Commission ..........................www.legalservices.gov.ukOffice of the Information Commissioner .........www informationcommissioner.org.ukParliament (UK) ..........................................www.parliament.ukThe Civil Justice Council ...............................www.civiljusticecouncil.gov.ukThe Court Service .......................................www.courtservice.gov.ukThe Law Commission ...................................www.lawcom.gov.ukThe Stationery Office ...................................www.tso.co.ukThe Youth Justice Board ...............................www.youth-justice-board.gov.uk

ILEX, whilst making every effort to ensure accuracy, is not responsible for the contents of the websites. The websites are provided to help you complete your portfolio but their inclusion does not imply endorsement by ILEX.

3 An introduction to legal method

a Statutory interpretation

b Judicial precedent in practice

4 Business practice and procedure

a The main functions and procedures of an office

b Solicitor’s accounts – office and client account, solicitor’scharges, client care (Rule 15)

c Office practice

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Appendix �

ILEX Portfolio Frontsheet

Name ...................................................................................................................

ILEX Registration No. ...................................................................................................................

If found, please return to ...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

Telephone number ...................................................................................................................

Accredited Assessment Centre ...................................................................................................................

Address ...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................


Assessor ...................................................................................................................

Address ...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................


Workplace ...................................................................................................................

Supervisor ...................................................................................................................

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Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet �

Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice

Content Element �: Introduction to Transferable Skills

You must show by your evidence you are able to:

1 Undertake legal research

2 Demonstrate verbal skills

3 Produce evidence of written communication

4 Demonstrate team working

5 Provide evidence of problem solving

6 Demonstrate personal management skills

You must cover: You may use:

Evidence of library research/Use of internet including including Lawtel,Lexis/Nexis

Real/simulated interviews, use of the telephone, debates, moots, mock trials. Tape recordings. Role play. Presentations.

Letters, memos, reports, minutes, forms, essays, assessor worksheets, booklets.

Groupwork observation/reports by Assessor, Supervisor or fellow candidates. Action plans and evaluations.

Reports on real/simulated problems, approach taken. Case studies.

Planning/organisation of tasks, visits, interviews. Supervision of groupwork. Management of portfolio. Diaries, action plans and evaluations.

1 Legal research: legal texts, cases

2 Verbal skills: in a variety of contexts

3 Written communication: various types

4 Teamworking: in the AAC/workplace

5 Problem solving: legal issues

6 Personal management skills:

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Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet �

Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice A substantive introduction to the English Legal System

Content Element �a: The Law Making Process


1 Explain the sources of UK law

2 Outline the British Constitution

3 Describe the legislative process

4 Explain the sources and importance of European Law


Examples to illustrate the various sources of law.

A diagram of the Separation of Powers with explanations.A debate on a current constitutional issue.

The process of creating a statute from the green paper stage through to Royal Assent. Examples of delegated legislation.

Examples of each source of European Law with relevant case law.

Guidance:

You are encouraged to collect evidence from a range of newspapers, magazines and legal journals.

1 Sources: Common law, custom, case law and equity

2 British Constitution in outline: the Separation of Powers, the Supremacy of Parliament, conventions

3 Legislation: statutes, delegated legislation

4 European Law: European Treaties, regulations, directives, European Court of Justice case law

�3

Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet 3Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice A substantive introduction to the English Legal System

Content Element �b: The Court Structure


1 Explain the function of law courts and tribunals

2 Outline the criminal and civil court structure

3 Outline the roles of the appellate courts

4 Explain the role of the various European Courts


Current legal cases or issues which may involve the jurisdiction of the courts or tribunals.Reports on a court or tribunal visit.

Recent criminal and civil cases at each of the various levels.Case law from other units.

Diagrams, with explanations, of the court hierarchy.

Cases to illustrate the different jurisdiction of these courts.

Guidance:

You are encouraged to visit local courts/tribunals, and to observe the roles of the court personnel and report on your findings.

Cases may be cited from newspapers, magazines, legal journals, CD Rom, Internet, Lawtel, Lexis/Nexis and Westlaw.

It is likely that evidence generated in this element could also be used in element 2c: Legal Personnel and their responsibilities and element 3a: Statutory Interpretation and 3b: Judicial Precedent in Practice.

1 Law courts: criminal and civil functions, Tribunals: employment and domestic

2 Law courts: criminal and civil court structure

3 The appeal courts: role and hierarchy

4 The European courts: European Court of Justice, Court of First Instance, European Court of Human Rights

�4

Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet 4Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice A substantive introduction to the English Legal System

Content Element �c: Legal Personnel and their Responsibilities


1 Describe the training and roles of the various legal personnel

2 Describe the responsibilities of solicitors to clients, the courts and third parties

3 Recognise the importance of the duty to preserve confidentiality and how to avoid a conflict of interest

4 Explain the use and importance of solicitors’ undertakings


Summaries of the roles of legal personnel, similarities and differences.Debate on the fusion of the profession.Flowcharts of the training routes, with explanations.Research on the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990.

Extracts from the Solicitors’ Practice Rules.Cases of negligence and reports of disciplinary action by the Solicitors’ Disciplinary Tribunal.

Examples of good practice regarding confidentiality using examples where conflict of interest is an issue.

Reports from observation of personnel at work (office, court).

Guidance:

Examples, real or simulated, of conflict of interest which could arise in the relationship between buyer/seller, lessor/lessee, mortgagor/mortgagee, where a lawyer may be acting for the two parties.

It is likely that evidence generated in this element could also be used in element 2b: The Court Structure.

1 Legal personnel: solicitors, barristers, legal executives. Training, career opportunities, the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990

2 Responsibilities: legal, professional, moral; Solicitors’ Practice Rules, vicarious liability, client care, negligence, the Office for the Supervision of Solicitors

3 The duty of care between solicitors and clients and between clients including confidentiality

4 Solicitors’ undertakings to the court and other professionals

��

Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet �Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice A substantive introduction to the English Legal System

Content Element �d: Publicly Funded Legal Services - civil and criminal


1 Explain the principles of Publicly Funded Legal Services and evaluate the system and recent reforms

2 Explain the procedures for obtaining civil and criminal Publicly Funded assistance

3 Outline the operation of franchising and contracting system and conditional fee arrangements

4 Complete application forms for Publicly Funded assistance


Debate/report on the provision of Publicly Funded assistanceEvaluation/debate on the system.

Flowcharts, with explanations, of the procedures for civil and criminal Publicly Funded Legal Services.Role play or client interviews.

Explanations of the franchising and contracting systems and conditional fee arrangements.

Completed application forms for civil and criminal Publicly Funded Legal Services.

Guidance:

Application forms are available from regional office of the Legal Services Commission (LSC) or law firms.

Statistical information on Government spending on Publicly Funded Legal Services could be researched.

A useful website is www.legalservices.gov.uk

1 Principles of Publicly Funded Legal Services: How the system is funded and access to justice

2 Procedures: civil, including the statutory charge, criminal, the Duty Solicitor Scheme, Legal help and help at court.

3 Franchising: contracts, standards, quality control mark. Conditional fees

4 Applications: Legal help and help at court, civil and criminal

�6

Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet 6

Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice An introduction to Legal Method

Content Element 3a: Statutory Interpretation


1 Explain the role of the courts in the interpretation of legislation

2 Describe and apply the main rules of statutory interpretation


Examples of difficulties with legislation.

Groupwork on creating a by-law, and applying the rules of interpretation to any ambiguities.Case law applications.

Guidance:

You have the opportunity to provide evidence of research, team working and problem solving skills here.

It is likely that evidence generated in this element could also be used in element 2b: The Court Structure and 3b: Judicial Precedent in Practice.

1 Interpretation: the courts’ role, with the aid of examples

2 Rules: the golden, literal and mischief rules, internal and external aids, presumptions, Interpretation Act 1978. Examples of the application of the rules

�7

Appendix 3


Unit 1: Introduction to Law and PracticeAn introduction to Legal Method

Content Element 3b: Judicial Precedent in Practice


1 Explain the doctrine and system of judicial precedent

2 Provide examples of conflicting judicial decisions

3 Distinguish between the ratio decidendi and obiter dicta of a judgment

4 Demonstrate the ability to carry out legal research and solve legal problems


Diagrams, with explanations, of the hierarchy of the courts.Analysis/debate on the strengths and weaknesses of the doctrine.

Examples of differing judgments.Moot or Mock Trial with a report or video.

Case judgments to illustrate the principles.

Cases researched from various sources: reports, CD Rom, databases, Internet, Lawtel, Lexis/Nexis and Westlaw.

Guidance:

You should be able to demonstrate research and problem solving here.

Evidence may also be drawn from other Units.

It is likely that evidence generated in this element could also be used in element 2b: The Court Structure and element 3a: Statutory Interpretation.

1 Judicial precedent: stare decisis, binding judgments. The court hierarchy

2 Decisions: distinguishing, disapproving, overruling, reversing

3 Explanations and examples

4 Research: Halsbury’s Laws of England, Law Reports, Current Law, Precedent books, main practitioners’ texts

�8

Appendix 3


Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice Business practice and procedure

Content Element 4a: The main functions and procedures of a Legal Office


1 Describe the main office procedures with reference to a solicitor’s office

2 Explain the roles and responsibilities of the office personnel

3 Relate these procedures to solicitors’ duties to clients


Samples of diary extracts, time records, file entries.

Interviews with workplace personnel.

Procedures to ensure client care and confidentiality.

Guidance:

You are reminded that all evidence derived from the workplace should be checked by your workplace supervisor, and that their signature will acknowledge the authenticity of the evidence.

For those candidates who are unable to obtain evidence in the workplace, evidence simulated or practice evidence obtained in an Accredited Assessment Centre (AAC) is acceptable.

It is likely that evidence generated in this element could also be used in element 3c: Legal Personnel and their responsibilities.

1 Procedures: diaries, time recording, file storage, office technology

2 Personnel: fee earners, support staff

3 Duties: client care, confidentiality

�9

Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet 9Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice Business practice and procedure

Content Element 4b: Solicitors’ Accounts


1 Explain the importance of the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules with examples

2 Distinguish between contentious and non-contentious business with examples

3 Outline the procedures for time costing, billing and the Solicitors’ Remuneration Order 1994 with examples


Research from the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules with summaries and extracts.

Research with explanations and examples.

Real/simulated accounts, estimates, charges, invoices.Accompanying letters.

Guidance:



1 Solicitors’ Accounts Rules: in particular Rule 15. Office and Client Accounts. Provide examples

2 Procedures for accounting: in particular the Solicitors’ Remuneration Order 1994. Provide examples

3 Costing: complexity, novelty, skill, experience, quantity of work, value involved. Provide examples

�0

Appendix 3

Candidate Record Sheet �0Unit 1: Introduction to Law and Practice Business practice and procedure

Content Element 4c: Office Practice


1 Store and retrieve a variety of information in a competent manner

2 Operate office equipment effectively

3 Demonstrate effective organisational and interpersonal skills


Extracts/examples from filing systems.

Telephones, faxes, computers, e-mail and other office equipment.

Real/simulated office practices.Observation reports, interviews by Supervisor.Work placement or employment appraisal.Minutes of meetings.Memos.Messages.

Guidance:



1 Information: paper based and computer based filing systems

2 Use of office equipment

3 Skills: information gathering, handling, storing, retrieving, dissemination.

��

Appendix 4

Candidate Evidence Sheet �

Unit 1: Introduction to Law and PracticeThis sheet should be used to identify and record how you produced evidence required for Unit 1.To help you plan your work you may wish to pencil in possible sources of evidence. This sheet can be updated as evidence is collected in your Portfolio.

Content Element �: An Introduction to transferable skills

You must Evidence Index Signature be able to: titles number of assessor

� Undertake ................................................................................................................................... legal research ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

� Demonstrate ................................................................................................................................... verbal skills ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

3 Produce ...................................................................................................................................

evidence of written ................................................................................................................................... communication ...................................................................................................................................

4 Demonstrate ................................................................................................................................... team working ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

� Produce ................................................................................................................................... evidence of problem ................................................................................................................................... solving ...................................................................................................................................

6 Demonstrate ................................................................................................................................... personal management ................................................................................................................................... skills ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

��

Appendix 4



Content Element �a: The Law Making Process


� Explain the ................................................................................................................................... sources of UK law ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

� Outline the ................................................................................................................................... British Constitution ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

3 Describe the ................................................................................................................................... legislative process ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

4 Explain the ................................................................................................................................... importance of European Law ...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

�3

Appendix 4

Candidate Evidence Sheet 3

Unit 1: Introduction to Law and PracticeThis sheet should be used to identify and record how you produced evidence required for Unit 1.To help you plan your work you may wish to pencil in possible sources of evidence.This sheet can be updated as evidence is collected in your Portfolio.

Content Element �b: The Court Structure


� Explain the ........................................................................................................................... function of law courts and ........................................................................................................................... tribunals in the UK ...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

� Outline the ........................................................................................................................... criminal and civil court ........................................................................................................................... structure ...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

3 Outline the role of the appellate courts ........................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

4 Explain the role ........................................................................................................................... of various European courts ...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

�4

Appendix 4



Content Element �c: Legal Personnel and their Responsibilities


� Describe the .................................................................................................................................. roles and training of .................................................................................................................................. the various legal .................................................................................................................................. personnel ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

� Describe the .................................................................................................................................. responsibilities of solicitors to .................................................................................................................................. clients, the courts and .................................................................................................................................. third parties ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3 Recognise the .................................................................................................................................. importance of the duty to .................................................................................................................................. preserve confidentiality .................................................................................................................................. and to avoid a conflict of .................................................................................................................................. interest ..................................................................................................................................

4 Explain the .................................................................................................................................. use and importance .................................................................................................................................. of solicitors’ undertakings ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

��

Appendix 4



Content Element �d: Publicly Funded Assistance


� Examine the .................................................................................................................................. principles of Publicly Funded .................................................................................................................................. Legal Services and evaluate the .................................................................................................................................. system and reforms .................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................

� Explain the .................................................................................................................................. procedures for obtaining civil .................................................................................................................................. and criminal Publicly Funded .................................................................................................................................. Legal Services ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3 Outline the .................................................................................................................................. operation of the franchising and .................................................................................................................................. contracting system and .................................................................................................................................. conditional fee arrangements ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

4 Complete .................................................................................................................................. application forms for .................................................................................................................................. Publicly Funded .................................................................................................................................. Legal Services ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

�6

Appendix 4



Content Element 3a: Statutory Interpretation


� Explain the .................................................................................................................................. role of the courts in the .................................................................................................................................. interpretation of legislation ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

� Describe and .................................................................................................................................. apply the main rules .................................................................................................................................. of statutory interpretation ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

�7

Appendix 4



Content Element 3b: Judicial Precedent in Practice


� Explain the .................................................................................................................................. doctrine and system of .................................................................................................................................. judicial precedent ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

� Provide .................................................................................................................................. examples of conflicting .................................................................................................................................. judicial decisions ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3 Distinguish .................................................................................................................................. between the ratio decideni .................................................................................................................................. and obiter dicta of a judgment ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

4 Demonstrate .................................................................................................................................. the ability to carry out legal .................................................................................................................................. research and solve legal .................................................................................................................................. problems ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

�8

Appendix 4



Content Element 4a: The Main Functions and Procedures of a Legal Office


� Describe the .................................................................................................................................. main office procedures .................................................................................................................................. with reference to a solicitor’s .................................................................................................................................. office ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

� Explain the .................................................................................................................................. roles and responsibilities .................................................................................................................................. of office personnel ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3 Relate these .................................................................................................................................. procedures to solicitors’ .................................................................................................................................. duties to clients .................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

�9

Appendix 4



Content Element 4b: Solicitors’ Accounts


� Explain the .................................................................................................................................. importance of the Solicitors’ .................................................................................................................................. Accounts Rules with examples .................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

� Distinguish .................................................................................................................................. between contentious .................................................................................................................................. and non- contentious .................................................................................................................................. business with examples ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3 Outline the .................................................................................................................................. procedures for time costing, .................................................................................................................................. billing and the Solicitors’ .................................................................................................................................. Remuneration Order �994 .................................................................................................................................. with examples ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

30

Appendix 4

Candidate Evidence Sheet �0


Content Element 4c: Office Practice


� Store and .................................................................................................................................. retrieve a variety of .................................................................................................................................. information in a competent .................................................................................................................................. manner ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

� Operate office .................................................................................................................................. equipment effectively .................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3 Demonstrate .................................................................................................................................. effective organisational .................................................................................................................................. and interpersonal ...................................................................................................................................... skills ..................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3�

Appendix �

Assessment Summary SheetImportant:

This form must be completed by the candidate and signed off by the assessor as having been completed subject to external moderation before entry to the ILEX Examination can take place.

Name ................................................................. Workplace .......................................................................

ILEX registration No ........................................... Assessor ..........................................................................

Centre ................................................................ Workplace Supervisor .....................................................

Unit � Assessor to sign Introduction to Content Elements when all requirements Law & Practice are satisfied

1 Introduction to Transferable Skills

2a The Law Making Process

2b Court Structure

2c Legal Personnel and their Responsibilities

2d Publicly Funded Legal Services

3a Statutory Interpretation

3b Judicial Precedent in Practice

4a Main Functions and Procedures of a Legal Office

4b Solicitors’ Accounts

4c Office Practice

I confirm all work submitted is my own.

Candidate ................................................................................... Date ............................ .........................

AAC AssessorSignature & comment ..................................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................... Date ......................................................

External ModeratorSignature & comment ..................................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................... Date ......................................................

1 Transferable Skills

2 The English Legal System

3 The Legal Method

4 Business Practice

3�

StudentRegistration

Membershipof the

Institute

Fellowshipof the

Institute

ILEX ProfessionalDiploma in Law

Examination Routeor Mixed Assessment

Route

ILEX ProfessionalHigher Diploma

in Law

QualifyingEmployment2 Consecutive

Years

QualifyingEmployment

Kempston Manor, Kempston, Bedford MK4� 7AB

Institute of Legal ExecutivesTel: 01234 841 000Fax: 01234 840 373DX: 124780 Kempston 2Email: [email protected]: www.ilex.org.uk

Direct Lines (STD Code 01234)

Operations DivisionExaminations/Assessments 845 718Membership 841 000Enquiry Line 845 718Fax 854 078

ExemptionsAdministrator 845 728Fax 854 078

Centre Liaison TeamJohn Burns 845 734Teresa Miller 845 736Pauline Scrivener 845 729

There is a Regional Liaison officer for each of the following areas - East Midlands, West Midlands and Wales. They can be contacted through John Burns on 01234 845 734.

Education Team 845 730, 845762 & 845726

Student Information Hotline 845 755

Contact Address – The ILEX Group

Documents

Mixed Assessment Route - CILEx Portfolio - FINAL.pdf · Mixed Assessment Route candidates will be assessed in three ways: 1 A portfolio of evidence for Unit 1 Introduction to Law