Welcome to the fourth edition of The Argument – a critical analysis of the law by law students at the University of Kent.
Firstly, I would like to greet and welcome back all students at the University of Kent. Secondly, I would like to introduce the new members of the editorial team: I am Louise Hatherall (Editor-in-Chief) – I work alongside Sarah Ward (Deputy Editor-in-Chief) and a stellar editorial team to bring you the fourth edition of The Argument. For those new to Kent Law School, it is important to give a brief overview of what this publication entails. The Argument is a critical platform in which law students at the University of Kent can objectively debate and analyse law and society away from the constraints that come with the classroom setting, or the obligations that come with the demands of exams. The publication is written and produced by students whom, by the submission of their articles, steer the focus and content of every issue – we aim to spark debate.
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Keep up with the ever-changing position of law with our summary of recent legislation
As a student reading law, with all the usual obligations we have (such as seminar preparation, coursework and exam revision), many forget to pay attention to the ever-changing position of the law. Although not the most interesting of things to do, updating your legal awareness is paramount to pursuing a career in law. Here, we have summarised a few of the recent laws to have been enacted and legal principles that have been confirmed by the courts.

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‘Defending the Guilty’ by Alex McBride is a book I choose to read and review as a result of my desire to gain some insight into the life as a criminal Barrister, and while it seems a little out-dated as a result of McBride training years before how it happens now, it is still a fascinating read and it is not entirely so different as far as I can tell, so it provides a well thought out viewpoint from someone who has done it all and seen it all. It is a book that seems to focus quite strongly on the attributes required to succeed in the profession, but I won’t ruin his good advice by taking it out of context and ruining it for you. The first few chapters of the book will take you through (among his pupilage days) a succinct history of the English Legal system, and compare it to other countries methods of justice. All this is done with strong, humorous and likeable narrative which draws you through the book, and is actually very informative as well as being enjoyable.
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It is getting to that time of year again – LPC, BPTC and GDL deadlines are approaching! If you are thinking about becoming a qualified solicitor with or without a qualifying law degree then you should consider The College of Law. To find out more about The College and to experience a day there, we recommend you visit one of our Colleges.
Open Days
We have eight centres throughout the UK in Manchester, Moorgate London, Bloomsbury London, Guildford, Bristol, Birmingham, Chester and York. Our open days give you the opportunity to learn about the College through a talk and guided tour. We also encourage you to participate in workshops and a range of activities which follow The College teaching style to give you a real insight.
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Westlaw
Westlaw is a legal database available to all Kent Law students, which enables you to search within cases, statutes and journals. It is not only extremely valuable for your studies at Kent, but also for your employment in the legal sector. Westlaw is not only used by many of the smaller firms, but it is also used by 90% of the top 100 law firms.
Use your initiative and visit your Westlaw Representative, Imogen Canavan in her office hours on the third floor in the Templeman Library behind the law reference room, or come along to one of our training sessions later in the year to gain certification. Look out for emails and notices in the Law School; this is your chance to improve your employability and to gain skills that will be invaluable in legal practice.

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