UQ law students have been learning the ins and outs of pro bono practice in a joint project with the Queensland Public Interest Law Clearing House.
The TC Beirne School of Law has been running the program for the past three years, with 28 students currently enrolled in four different streams – the greatest variety of such courses in Queensland.
“All clinics provide students with the opportunity to gain experience through working with members of the legal profession in pro bono social justice legal services,” program director Paul O’Shea said.
Students are currently working within areas of consumer protection, brief services, legal clinic for homeless persons, consumer law advice and public interest research.
In 2005, the operation of the Consumer Law Advice Clinic conducted at the Queensland Public Interest Law Clearing House received the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Consumer Protection.
UQ students have assisted over 400 clients since the program started, with an estimate of over $50,000 in fees saved as a result.
Media: Emma Young at the TC Beirne School of Law (07 3346 9350, e.young@law.uq.edu.au)
