OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law

In the ever-evolving world of legal services, the demand for skilled professionals with a thorough understanding of law continues to rise. Whether you’re looking to pursue a career as a legal practitioner, work in corporate law, or enter roles within the public sector, the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law provides the knowledge and skills needed to embark on or advance your career in the legal field.

This qualification offers an in-depth understanding of key legal principles, from contract law and criminal law to ethics and legal research, preparing learners for professional roles in law firms, government agencies, or corporations. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the essential tools to pursue further academic study or begin working in a variety of legal environments.

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of law. This diploma equips students with the knowledge and skills required to work in the legal sector or to progress to further study in law. The course covers key areas such as contract law, criminal law, legal research, and professional ethics, and it emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical legal skills.

This qualification is ideal for individuals who wish to pursue a career in law or who are already working in a legal capacity and want to deepen their understanding of legal processes and principles. It provides a solid foundation for students who intend to pursue law degrees, as well as those looking to progress to higher-level qualifications in the legal field.

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law focuses on providing a strong understanding of the legal system, legal processes, and fundamental areas of law. Students will study a variety of legal disciplines and develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to navigate the complex legal environment.

Key areas of study include:

Legal Foundations: An introduction to law and the legal system.
Contract Law: Understanding the laws related to forming and enforcing agreements.
Criminal Law: Insight into criminal law and its application in real-world scenarios.
Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility: Examination of the ethical responsibilities of legal professionals.
Legal Research and Writing: Learning how to conduct legal research and produce legal documents effectively.

By the end of the course, learners will be prepared to either enter the workforce or continue their studies in the legal field, equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed.

Course Study Units

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law qualification consists of twelve mandatory units, 240 credits, 2400 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and the recommended Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for this qualification is a minimum of 960 hours.

To achieve the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law qualification, learners must achieve 240 credits, of which 120 credits are at Level 4 (6 units) and 120 credits are at Level 5 (6 units).

Mandatory units

An Introduction to the English Legal System (20 credits)
Academic Writing and Research Skills for Law (20 credits)
Contract Law (20 credits)
Business Law (20 credits)
Public Law (20 credits)
Criminal Law (20 credits)
Company Law and Corporate Governance (20 credits)
Employment Law (20 credits)
International Business Law (20 credits)
Land Law (20 credits)
Tort Law (20 credits)
Legal Research Methods and Professional Skills (20 credits)

Course Learning Outcomes

By completing the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law, learners will be able to:

Understand Legal Systems: Gain a solid understanding of legal systems and principles, and how they apply to various areas of law.
Analyze Contract Law: Understand the formation, terms, and enforcement of contracts, as well as the remedies for breach of contract.
Apply Criminal Law: Gain insight into the criminal justice system, including the various criminal offenses and procedures for criminal prosecution.
Conduct Legal Research and Writing: Acquire the skills necessary to conduct legal research and draft legal documents, including case law analysis and legal writing.
Understand Legal Ethics: Develop an understanding of the ethical responsibilities of legal professionals, and the importance of maintaining professional conduct in the legal profession.
Explore Public Law: Understand the relationship between the individual and the state, including constitutional law, human rights, and administrative law.
Navigate Civil Law and Torts: Gain knowledge of civil law, including the law of torts and personal injury claims.
Implement ADR Techniques: Understand and apply alternative dispute resolution techniques, such as mediation and arbitration, to resolve legal disputes outside of court.

Who is This Course For?

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law is designed for individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in the legal field. It is ideal for:

Aspiring Legal Professionals: Individuals who wish to pursue a career in law and need a strong foundation in the principles of law, legal research, and professional ethics.
Existing Legal Support Staff: Paralegals, legal assistants, and other support staff who want to deepen their understanding of the law and improve their career prospects.
Business Professionals: Those working in corporate or public sectors who need a solid understanding of legal principles, such as contract law, tort law, and public law.
Graduates from Other Disciplines: Those who have completed a degree in another field but wish to transition into a career in law or further their understanding of legal systems.

Course Future Progression

Upon completion of the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law, learners can pursue a wide range of career opportunities and further study options.

Career Progression:

Paralegal: Provide legal support to lawyers, assisting with legal research, case preparation, and document management.
Legal Secretary: Provide administrative and clerical support to law firms, including drafting legal documents and managing case files.
Legal Assistant: Support solicitors and barristers with case preparation, client meetings, and legal research.
Legal Consultant: Offer specialized legal advice to businesses or individuals in areas such as contract law, employment law, or corporate law.
Legal Researcher: Conduct research on legal matters for law firms, government agencies, or academia.

Further Study Opportunities:

Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB): Progress to a law degree if you wish to become a solicitor or barrister, or pursue a career as a legal professional.
Postgraduate Diplomas in Law: For those looking to specialize further in a particular area of law such as human rights, international law, or corporate law.
Master’s in Law (LLM): A postgraduate degree that allows learners to specialize further in a specific area of law and pursue a career as a legal expert or academic.
Legal Practice Course (LPC) or Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC): If you wish to become a solicitor or barrister, you can take these professional training courses after completing a law degree.

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law provides an excellent foundation for those looking to pursue a career in the legal profession or those who wish to further their understanding of law and its application in society. The course covers critical areas such as contract law, criminal law, legal ethics, and legal research, ensuring that learners develop both practical and theoretical legal knowledge.

Whether you’re just beginning your legal career or seeking to specialize in a particular area of law, this qualification will provide you with the skills and expertise needed to succeed. Moreover, it offers a pathway to further study and professional development, ensuring that you are well-equipped for a successful career in the legal field.