Key facts
UNE unit code: LAW270
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

This unit is designed to familiarise you with the advanced and specialist knowledge of interviewing in the context of advocacy and preparation for litigation.
You’ll gain a broad understanding of theories of psychology, law, communication and linguistics relevant to interviewing and recognising rational and social political factors that may impact on questioning and interviewing different cohorts. These include children, elderly and vulnerable, juveniles and Indigenous people.
You’ll also apply your theoretical knowledge to develop your practical skills in interviewing questioning and communication techniques.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- use cognitive skills to identify and evaluate theories of interviewing in a legal context;
- analyse the impact of social and political factors on clients and determine a considerate approach to client interviewing and questioning based on these factors;
- reflect on and apply relevant approaches to professional advocacy to various legal scenarios;
- demonstrate well developed communication and client interviewing skills specific to various legal situations and practice; and
- use initiative and critical thinking to effectively strategise, plan and complete oral interviews with clients in a legal context.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay | Yes | 30% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 |
| Oral assessment - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | The oral exam will be offered face-to-face or online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Witness Statement | Yes | 20% | All offerings | No. Words: 1000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Investigative Interviewing Explained
ISBN: 9780409338119
Ord, B., Shaw, G. and Green, T., LexisNexis 4th ed. 2014
Text refers to: All offerings
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