From law school to practice: conflict in Australian University mental health management and law student employability

Abstract

ABSTRACT Extensive research shows that both law students and lawyers suffer from statistically increased mental ill health. Despite the research, there is a disconnect between support for law students struggling with mental ill health and the accreditation guarantee that students have adequate preparation for legal practice. This article reviews Australian universities’ claims providing both employment-ready graduates and mental health support for their students. However, when Australian universities grant ongoing extensions for law students who suffer from mental ill health, the university fails to provide these students sufficient preparation to perform an inherent requirement of legal practice: a demonstrated ability to adhere to strict deadlines. As such, a University may fail to meet its own claims of employment focus in the context of legal education for this cohort of graduates. With increased discussion relating to student mental ill health and the Covid-19 pandemic, there is an opportunity to better address mental ill health in law students. The article provides an immediate solution for Australian jurisdictions, using existing Australian university learning outcome framework. This solution can provide a framework for other jurisdictions that require accredited law school graduation as part of law licensure to better promote mental health and wellbeing before entering practice.