Good negotiation skills are essential in many professions, such as business, and politics but it is also brilliant practice for all those aiming to be lawyers or barristers. (Not to mention it looks pretty good when meeting prospective employers ! ). Here at hull law society we run a number of student competitions including a negotiation competition open to anyone who is a member of the law society.

Negotiation is a great chance to meet new people and practice skills, such as team work, negotiating with other individuals, and working for the benefit of a client .Which will not only help you in the working world, but also in everyday situations such as negotiating with landlords, phone companies and may even help you negotiate with your parents for a bit of extra money ! Which is something most students experience. Its a great confidence booster, Which requires no legal experience or knowledge so its brilliant for students of all ages and ability from 1st year right up to 3rd year. Ask of the past teams will say just how much they enjoyed taking part in previous years.

Each team will get an identical a set of common facts and then another confidential brief from their client, specific to each team . Each team consists of two people and its your job to reach a settlement with the other team which will please your client. I took part in the competition last year which is sponsored by a large hull law firm and loved every minute of it, it even gave me the chance to win some invaluable work experience at the law firm Andrew Jackson, along with the other prizes that are offered in the finals and meet a number of the partners of Andrew Jackson and some of the solicitors.

There will be a demonstration, which is usually held in the first few weeks of term, where you can ask any questions and see what’s involved in negotiation. There will be posters around the law society and the time and date will be announced in lectures. It’s a great experience so come along and check it out.

Cait Sweeney (Negotiation Rep)

Cait Sweeney

Title: Negotiation Rep
Year: LLB Year 2
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