Any tips for an upcoming LLB Law student?

It feels so weird typing out this question, it wasn't too long ago when i was asking the same thing about my, at the time, upcoming A-Levels!

Even so, I understand that a DEGREE in LAW of all things will be no walk in the park, and is something that will be unlike anything i have ever dealt with before during my time at school.

I just wanted to know any tips, e.g. how you structured lecture notes, seminars, revision methods? cases?

Please ANY tips would be so unbelievably appreciated, i feel like i'm going to be so out of my depth

Reply 1

Stiffy Byng

Have you read Letters to a Law Student by Nick McBride, and/or Learning The Law by Glanville Williams? Each is worth a look.

In general, there is no substitute for reading the cases. Reading judgments is always better than reading summaries of judgments. If you do use case books, use the most reputable ones eg Lord Burrows on Contract.

Learn how to "gut" a case or a piece of academic writing by speed-reading and focus on the main points. The headnote of a case in the official Law Reports contains a key to the most important passages in the judgment(s). If reading a case on BAILII or elsewhere, use the headings within the judgment (if any) or search for key terms. Remember that the principles are what matters, not so much the facts. The doctrine of stare decisis does not mean that the law is an exercise in pattern-matching.

On the internet, trust websites run by respected universities and legal commentators, not random amateur sites about the law. The websites of law firms and chambers sometimes have useful pieces on recent developments.

Take nothing for granted. Look things up. Get into the habit of seeking authority for each proposition of law.

Read a good book on the interpretation of statutes and apply the principles when reading legislation. Have fun, good luck!