The Citizens Advice Clinic at Buckingham Law School

Eligibility for the CA Clinic Module

The 2nd year option module is open to all full time LLB students, who are invited to attend an information session with CA MK and apply at the end of their first year.

How do you apply?

By CA MK application form.

What is the selection process?

Candidates are shortlisted for interview conducted by the CA MK Training Manager and Clinical Legal Education Manager. Students are selected on merit in academic work, motivation and interview performance.

Do students receive training?

Students accepted onto the module, undertake an induction and online training with CA MK. Students also benefit from interactive lectures at the University, utilising a confidential style to allow experimentation with interview techniques.

CA Clinic sessions at CA MK

Students attend timetabled clinic sessions at CA MK for one day per week in term time.

How are Clinic Sessions organised?

Upon successful completion of all training components, student volunteers, fully supervised by the CA MK Training Supervisor, conduct clinic appointments on site at CA MK via email, telephone or digital drop-in service.

What type of client enquiries are involved?

Student volunteers offer preliminary advice in family matters, consumer queries, contractual disputes, small claims court guidance, social welfare law – benefits advice, and housing (private landlord and tenant only)

How are student assessed?

Student volunteers undertake termly practical assessments involving online training, mock client interviews, observed clinic sessions at CA MK and a professional practice presentation utilising PowerPoint.

Clinic Experience Feedback

Volunteers are invited to share their clinic experience. This assists with post graduate applications and professional development.

What are the benefits from participating in the CA Clinic Module?

An excellent opportunity to learn client interviewing skills, developing the professional capacity to help with real life difficulties, and put into practice skills to enhance future career and life aspirations. The application process incorporates practical learning and experience that equips the student for the work-world outside University, after graduation. It provides an opportunity for students to write-up a curriculum vitae (cv) and career aspiration precise, and participate in a ‘job’ interview on which they receive feedback.