Professional Diploma in Legal Executive Studies

The Professional Diploma in Legal Executive Studies is designed to provide learners with a practical understanding of legal practice and the Irish legal system. This industry-focused programme equips participants with the knowledge, professional skills, and procedural understanding required to work effectively as a Legal Executive, Paralegal, Legal Secretary, or legal support professional.

Credit Value: Professional Diploma | Duration: 10 Weeks

This course is available via live online learning or part time, on campus.

Learners will develop expertise across key areas of legal practice including civil litigation, criminal litigation, conveyancing, family law, employment law, legal research, legal writing, and professional communication. The programme combines legal theory with practical workplace skills, enabling learners to confidently support solicitors, barristers, and legal teams within a professional legal environment.

This programme is suitable for those currently working in legal support roles, individuals seeking to enter the legal profession, or professionals wishing to gain a recognised qualification in legal practice.

Learning Modes

On Campus

Delivered through classroom-based learning in Dublin City Centre.

• 1 evening per week (6:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
• Delivered over 10 weeks
• Fully interactive classroom environment

Fees: €995

Payment Options:
• Instalment Plan Available
• Pay in Full and Receive €100 Discount

Live Online

Delivered through live online lectures with real-time instructor interaction and access to associated learning materials.

• 1 evening per week (6:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
• Delivered over 10 weeks
• Lectures recorded for review

Fees: €895

Payment Options:
• Instalment Plan Available

Qualification

Professional Diploma in Legal Executive Studies

Course Structure

This programme provides a practical introduction to the Irish legal system and the day-to-day functions of a Legal Executive or Paralegal. Through a combination of lectures, practical exercises, and legal case studies, learners will develop an understanding of legal procedures, legal documentation, court systems, and professional practice requirements.

The programme focuses on the practical application of legal knowledge, ensuring participants develop the administrative, procedural, research, and communication skills required within modern legal practice.

Course content is reviewed regularly and may be updated in line with legislative developments, industry standards, and professional practice requirements.

Modules

Week 1 – Introduction to the Irish Legal System

• The legal profession in Ireland
• Structure of the Irish courts system
• Civil and criminal jurisdictions
• Introduction to civil and criminal procedure
• Appellate courts and appeals processes
• Legal precedent and legislation

Week 2 – Legal Skills & Professional Practice

• Legal writing and drafting
• Legal research techniques
• Finding and interpreting case law and legislation
• Professional communication skills
• Ethics and professional conduct
• Preparing legal attendances and file notes

Week 3 – IT Skills for Legal Practice

• Microsoft Word for legal documentation
• Microsoft Excel fundamentals
• Microsoft Teams and digital collaboration
• Professional presentation skills
• Technology within legal practice

Week 4 – Conveyancing Practice

• Ownership of land and property rights
• Family home and shared home rights
• Licences and leases
• Incumbrances and title issues
• Overview of conveyancing transactions
• Property acquisition procedures

Week 5 – Civil Litigation I

• Statute of Limitations
• Initiating legal proceedings
• Parties to legal actions
• Costs and legal expenses
• Pre-action correspondence
• Service of proceedings

Week 6 – Civil Litigation II

• Pleadings and court documentation
• Affidavits and sworn evidence
• Legal privilege
• Discovery procedures
• Managing litigation files

Week 7 – Criminal Litigation

• Instituting criminal proceedings
• Taking client instructions
• First court appearances
• Bail applications
• District Court practice and procedure
• Circuit Court procedures and criminal trials

Week 8 – Personal Injuries Litigation

• Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB)
• Personal Injuries Guidelines
• Applications for assessment
• Recovery of benefits schemes
• Pleadings in personal injury actions
• Mediation and settlement procedures

Week 9 – Family Law

• Introduction to Family Law
• Family Law practice and procedure
• Judicial Separation
• Divorce proceedings
• Ancillary relief applications
• Domestic violence legislation

Week 10 – Employment Law

• Introduction to Employment Law
• Employment dispute resolution
• Workplace Relations Commission procedures
• Labour Court jurisdiction
• Preparing written submissions
• Employment law practice and advocacy

Assessment

Assessment is designed to evaluate both practical and theoretical understanding.

• Continuous Assessment – 100%
• Take-Home Examination
• Written Assignment

Successful completion of all assessments is required for the award of the Professional Diploma.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should meet one of the following:

• Legal Secretaries and Legal Executives
• Paralegals and Legal Support Staff
• Individuals seeking a career in legal practice
• Professionals wishing to gain a practical legal qualification
• Individuals considering progression to further legal studies

No prior legal qualification is required.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, learners will be able to:

• Understand the structure and operation of the Irish legal system
• Conduct legal research using case law and legislation
• Prepare professional legal documents and correspondence
• Apply ethical and professional standards within legal practice
• Understand conveyancing procedures and property transactions
• Support civil and criminal litigation processes
• Assist with personal injuries and family law matters
• Understand employment law procedures and dispute resolution mechanisms
• Utilise legal technology and office systems effectively
• Perform the duties expected of a Legal Executive or Paralegal within a legal practice environment

Career & Professional Development Opportunities

This programme supports career progression within:

• Legal Executive Roles
• Paralegal Positions
• Legal Secretarial Practice
• Solicitors’ Offices
• Barristers’ Chambers
• Corporate Legal Departments
• Public Sector Legal Services
• Regulatory and Compliance Functions

The qualification also provides a strong foundation for individuals considering progression to further professional legal education and training.

Why Choose This Course?

✔️ Practical legal training focused on real-world legal practice
✔️ Designed for Legal Executives, Paralegals, and legal support professionals
✔️ Covers major areas of Irish legal practice
✔️ Flexible on-campus and live online study options
✔️ Develop legal research, drafting, and communication skills
✔️ Learn from experienced legal practitioners
✔️ Gain a recognised professional qualification
✔️ Excellent preparation for a career in legal services