PBS means Business
Volunteering
Our law students, supervised by a professional solicitor, would be pleased to provide free legal advice on specific employment law issues, or independent mediation for personality disputes in the workplace.
The way in which we might help you
The Employment Law Clinic accepts referred employment law problems, for example advice on dismissal, national minimum wages or complaints of discrimination. Student advisors, usually acting in pairs, will interview the client and ascertain the relevant facts. The student advisors will then undertake detailed research and write a letter of advice to the client. This may take a few days, or longer, depending upon the complexity of the case. During this time the students will be consulting with their supervisor and presenting their solutions for prior approval to a Clinic Tutorial. Currently the Clinic does not represent clients at tribunals but it does give advice on the next steps to take.
The difference from consulting a professional solicitor is that no oral advice will be given by students. There will be a few days delay after interview while the supervisor who is a practicing solicitor is consulted. The final output, the written advice in a letter, is only sent after it is approved by the supervisor and signed by the Cinic solicitor. The whole process must comply with professional rules of conduct.
Portsmouth Mediation provides formal training to our law students, protected by a signed confidentiality agreement and a commitment of understanding, available on request. The formal training is supplemented by practical mediation experience by experienced mediators until the student is confident and deemed capable.
Benefit
Free professional legal service, in exchange for a short time delay. Providing benefit to youngsters in their professional legal training.
Cost
Free
Our expert in this area
Anne Stoneham supervises the Employment Law Clinic. Pat Feast will be pleased to arrange a suitable student team for you, for either Employment Law or the Portsmouth Mediation Service.
Out track record of success
Thisis the third year that Portsmouth law students have successfully volunteered legal advice in a variety of community services including the Citizens Advice Bureau.
For more information, please contact Allyson Hunt.