Free law advice... on the beach!

Beachgoers can get free legal advice by the ocean this summer thanks to the University of Exeter and local solicitors.

The University’s Law School Community Law Clinic already helps people with issues ranging from housing, employment and immigration.

Now the clinic is decamping to Teignmouth and Exmouth to run pro-bono sessions near the beach next month. People can get confidential advice on a range of issues and information about the next steps they should take.

“Law on the Beach” was the idea of Professor Sue Prince from the University of Exeter Law School and is inspired by a similar idea run by the University of Newcastle Law School in Australia. It is supported by leading law firms including Trowers and Hamlins, Scott Richards Solicitors and the Teignbridge Citizens Advice Bureau.

The aim is to support those impacted by the cost-of-living crisis with an urgent need for legal assistance and give students valuable learning opportunities. It can be harder for people living in seaside or rural areas to access legal support. Reforms also mean legal aid is now less available.

Kim McDonald, Senior Lecturer and Director of the Community Law Clinic at the University of Exeter, said: “Amidst the cost-of-living crisis, ensuring everyone has access to essential legal assistance is paramount. Too many do not have access to justice or legal aid. We hope Law on the Beach will empower individuals facing legal challenges intensified by the current economic climate and provide a lifeline to those navigating complex legal issues without adequate support.”

The students will have guidance from lawyers during the sessions.

Dr Craig Newbery-Jones, Associate Professor in Law at the University of Exeter Law School, said: “This initiative not only addresses a critical societal need but also provides our students with invaluable practical experience. By working alongside experienced professionals and tackling real-world legal challenges, our students will develop the skills and empathy needed to be effective advocates for justice.”

Those involved in Law on the Beach will also carry out research into the impact of pro bono legal advice on communities and look to establish the specific unmet legal needs of local communities.

The “Law on the Beach” Sessions will be held from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm on the following dates and locations:

• Exmouth: Tuesday 4th June – Ocean Club (sponsored by Trowers and Hamlins)
• Teignmouth: Wednesday 5th June – Teignmouth Yacht Club (sponsored by Scott Richards Solicitors)

The University of Exeter Access to Justice clinic is run in Exeter during term time. For more information or to arrange an appointment email a2jclinic@exeter.ac.uk or go to https://law.exeter.ac.uk/community/communitylawclinic/.