Al Tamimi & Company has partnered with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) to deliver a clinical legal course understood to be the first of its kind in the region.
The firm’s trainees, supervised by senior lawyers, hosted university students at its Abu Dhabi office.
A total of 13 students were mentored by 15 of the firm’s lawyers, which included ten trainees and five senior counsel and partners.
They provided training in various areas of law through interactive discussions and simulated real-life legal tasks.
Sessions took place every Thursday over an eight-week period from September 12 until October 31, 2024.
“These learning sessions provide students with the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and reflect our dedication to advancing legal education in the community,” said Al Tamimi Abu Dhabi office head and partner Alex Ghazi. “Empowering students with practical knowledge is vital for their success.”
SUAD associate professor for law, economics and management at SUAD, Dr Beatriz Garcia, said the sessions “enrich our students’ educational and practical experience and enhance their preparation for the job market”.
Continuing, she said: “This collaboration will positively impact our students, and we anticipate future projects that demonstrate the synergy between academic institutions and legal experts in addressing real-world challenges.”
SUAD has plans to run the programme annually, telling Law Middle East it is currently exploring opportunities for its development. It may set a cap of 15 students to ensure the quality of the programme, a spokesperson for the university said.
Clinical legal education, wherein law firms partner with local universities to enhance the legal education of students, is a developing concept in the Middle East. In the UK, for example, a number of initiatives are underway with top law firms and universities.
Earlier this year a committee uniting members from the Ministry of Education with representatives from top local and international law firms, including Al Tamimi, was formed to revamp legal programmes and boost prospects for graduates. The initiative sought to provide law students at local universities with practical training opportunities.
