Transformative Legal Placement in Thailand for UQ Law Students

UQ Law students at the Chiang Mai Provincial Court

CPICL Fellow, Associate Professor Francesca Bartlett, accompanied 12 University of Queensland undergraduate students on a two-week placement working with BABSEACLE, a not-for-profit legal education organisation in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This placement provided students with an opportunity to learn about aspects of another legal system, while reflecting on Australia’s own legal system and enhancing their professional skills.

UQ Law students participating in a mock criminal sentencing hearing with local law students

During the placement, students participated in a variety of hands-on activities. They participated in a mock criminal sentencing hearing with local law students, offering a practical perspective on comparative legal practices. The group also visited the Chiang Mai Provincial Court, where they had the chance to speak with judges about the working of the court and compared legal careers and justice systems. Additionally, the students designed and delivered community legal education on rights relating to maternity and employment.

UQ Law students designing and delivering community legal education on rights relating to maternity and employment

This immersive placement is part of an ongoing Law School undergraduate program providing transformative experiences in law through practical exposure to other legal systems and international legal practitioners. The experience aimed to develop students’ cultural sensitivity and build legal skills such as translation of legal knowledge for access to justice projects.

Last updated:
13 January 2025