Applying Knowledge in Practice With IP Pro Bono

Abstract

Students are facing ever-growing challenges in the competitive employment market, and, therefore, employability is of great importance to universities. One aspect of this is that students need more than their degree under their belt by the time that they leave university. And here, practical experience is of growing importance in the legal profession, in the face of developing technology and the new Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE). At Brunel University London, I created an IP Free Legal Advice Service, which offers students the opportunity to provide entrepreneurs, inventors, and small businesses with legal advice on their IP. The scheme allows students the opportunity to apply their legal knowledge in a real situation, as well as gain experience with client interviews and letter writing. This chapter discusses teaching IP law through the practical application of the IP Legal Advice Service at Brunel University, London. It explains why and how the author runs the scheme, highlighting the benefits and challenges of this teaching methodology. It reflects on the student experience, the impact of the project and provides suggestions for other educators wanting to venture into the world of Pro Bono Clinics.