Program Overview

Introduction to Practical Legal Training (PLT)

Practical Legal Training (PLT) is an essential requirement for admission as a lawyer to the Supreme Court of NSW and by mutual recognition to the Supreme Courts of other Australian states and territories. The PLT program at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) prepares students for the diversity and dynamics of legal practice.

Overview of the PLT Program

The PLT program at UTS enables students to join the profession as highly competent and well-equipped lawyers. It is available as a standalone program or integrated into the Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor. The program consists of four core subjects and offers students professional training from experienced practitioners and educators, 15 days of practical work experience, and three intakes per year.

Course Components

The PLT program comprises four core subjects:

• 75424 Skills and Wills Practice
• 75422 Property and Commercial Practice
• 75423 Litigation Practice
• 75427 Practical Experience - 15 days Students also have a choice of electives in 75422 and 75423.

How to Undertake PLT

UTS Law students can undertake PLT in the final stage of their Bachelor of Laws or by enrolling in the Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice after completing their law degree. External applicants, including those with a Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor from another Australian university, or those with a Diploma of Law from the NSW Legal Profession Admission Board, can also apply for the Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice.

Fees and FEE-HELP

Information on fees, the fee calculator, and the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) is available. Fee assistance is also available for local and international students.

Early Start Rule

In some circumstances, students can commence PLT before completing their legal studies. To be eligible, students must have completed all core law subjects and have no more than two electives remaining in their degree.

How to Apply

UTS Bachelor of Laws students can enrol in the PLT Options in their degree. Current UTS students can apply online via My Student Portal, while external applicants apply through the Future Students application portal.

Admission as a Lawyer

After completing the PLT program, including practical experience, students are eligible to apply for admission with the NSW Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB). UTS Law will provide an original academic record, a Statement of Practical Legal Training completion, and an academic misconduct report, if required.

Exemptions

Exemptions from the 15-day on-campus attendance requirement may be granted based on disability, medical grounds, or extreme financial hardship. Students must provide supporting documentation and undergo a confidential assessment process.

Accessibility

Students seeking an exemption based on disability or medical grounds should contact the UTS Accessibility Service.

Extreme Financial Hardships

Students experiencing extreme financial hardship can apply for an exemption by contacting the UTS Financial Assistance Service. The assessment process considers personal difficulties in meeting essential expenses and financial thresholds.

Resident Outside of Sydney

Students residing more than 200 kilometers from the UTS campus and unable to attend on-campus sessions can apply for an exemption by providing supporting documentation.

Conclusion

The Practical Legal Training program at UTS is designed to prepare students for a successful career in law. With its comprehensive curriculum, flexible delivery options, and commitment to student support, the program provides a valuable pathway to admission as a lawyer in NSW and beyond.