Common Questions

1. Are these courses on Canadian law?

No, these are courses on the language of the law. Legal English has its own terminology and many words have developed special meaning in the English Common law.

Participants will learn common law perspectives and approaches at the same time they learn legal vocabulary & communication. Although there are regional differences between countries (and between each of the 50 American states) the methods of legal thinking and problem solving are similar throughout the common law world.

In the common law one word can change the entire meaning of an agreement. Our courses are important tools for learning the correct legal vocabulary and for gaining a better understanding of Common law legal culture: How do Common law lawyers and judges approach common areas of dispute? How does their approach differ from that under your legal system?

2. Is there going to be homework?

Yes. Although not mandatory, we suggest the students do as much as they can to get the maximum benefit from the course. It is better to make a mistake with us than with a client!

3. Who are the instructors that teach the seminars?

Our instructors are experienced Canadian lawyers who enjoy teaching and mentoring others. We have also set up a number of informal activities with other English speaking lawyers so that you can reinforce what you have learned.

4. How much legal English can I learn in two weeks?

Learning any language is an ongoing process but this course will certainly give you a good foundation and level of confidence in legal English. The same legal expressions tend to be repeated over and over in legal documents and you will have the opportunity to review many legal documents and will begin to see a pattern. Most fundamental legal terms will certainly be learned and we will teach you how to continue your learning via legal websites on the internet.

5. Do I need to have some knowledge of Common Law to participate in these courses?

No, but you do need to work in a legal setting whether as a lawyer, judge, official or professional interpreter.

6. Why should I choose your courses in preference to other courses which seem to cover similar ground?

Our courses are presented by instructors who are experienced lawyers with a thorough practical knowledge of the subject. They are skilled at emphasizing the salient points and explaining them in terms the students can understand, very often with examples from their own practising careers. This quality of presentation also makes our courses superior to other small-group courses.

7. What level of English do I need to participate in these courses?

Our initial courses are designed for those with more advanced English language skills. However, we are allied with other local language schools who offer excellent basic language training for professionals. Once an advanced intermediate level is achieved, students may do our specialized legal coursework.

8. Do I need a student visa to take these courses?

Not for our core courses--a visitor visa allows you to study in Canada for a period up to 3 months.