Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Aims
This module will introduce students to a key area of legal practice. It will provide a foundational level of understanding of the practice of Wills and Probate. Studying this module will enable students to draft a basic Will.
Intended Learning Outcomes
determine whether a will has been validly executed: 2advise on how to obtain a grant of probate: 2interpret the provisions of a will and advise on the distribution of an estate pursuant to its provisions and the powers and duties of executors and trustees: 2understand the implications of inheritance tax for estate planning and obtaining a grant of probate: 2identify and evaluate potential claims against the estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975: 2use precedents and succinctly and accurately draft a will or part of a will: 1recognise professional conduct issues that may arise in legal practice in relation to this area of law and advise and act accordingly: 2
Active Learning HoursSeminars (10 x 2hr): 20 hoursPreparing for seminars (reading, watching videos, listening to audios, other activities): 60 hoursReviewing and consolidating after seminars: 10 hoursPreparing for and completing the assignment: 18 hoursReview, revision and preparing for the Open Book Examination: 40 hoursCompleting the Open Book Examination: 2 hours
Description of Module Assessment
1: Assignment weighted 30%Drafting ExerciseStudents will be required to draft a basic will or part of a will or a codicil (500 words) and provide a brief explanation (500 words) to the client. Students will have to interpret the client's instructions and demonstrate the skill of drafting, which is a key skill in legal practice.
2: Open Book Examination weighted 70%Open book examinationThe examination will be divided into two parts.
Part A (20%): 5 single best answer MCQ questions, reflecting the style of questions in the SQE examination and ensuring the assessment covers sufficient range of the topics considered in the module.
Part b (80%) Problem based exercise requiring students to identify and advise on issues arising in one or more situation presented by a fictional client or clients.
Students will have a 28 hour window to complete the exam although the active working time (not including preparation) is 2 hours.