legal interview case study

Legal Case Study Interviews

Many commercial law firms require candidates to undertake a case study at the final interview stage.

There is not one single format, so it is advisable to ask the recruitment team what you can expect. Below are some general points and tips which have been put together from feedback from students who have gone through the process and what we have learned from law firms.

Legal Case Study and Commercial Awareness Exercises

Bear in mind that recruiters are always trying to improve their processes so it is likely that they will find new ways to assess candidates each year. It is therefore unlikely that you will find comprehensive resources to practise legal case studies in the same type of ways that you might for management consultancy case studies (in the consulting industry, case studies are extremely well established and follow a broadly similar format during the interview).

Generally speaking legal case studies are not intended to test out technical legal skills – this is partly because they need to be fair to both law and non law students. Instead they are more likely to test the skills required to be an effective lawyer within the world of (private practice) work. So focus your efforts on your specific law firm research, ways to demonstrate your motivation, and the practice of skills they are seeking rather than on preparing for specific types of exercises.

What Is Being Tested?

The following skills and attributes are likely to be tested throughout the interview process:

commercial awareness – for example, are you thinking about the client and the issues they may be facing? Are you thinking of the law firm as a business?
logical thinking - are you able to think in a structured way and use your common sense to arrive at a practical solution?
analytical skills - can you identify the key issues from a lot of information, perhaps under time pressure?
judgement - can you summarise the main points of the arguments and come to a conclusion given a certain set of facts?
time management - can you manage your time effectively? Can you prioritise information and activity? Will you get flustered if presented with a large volume of unfamiliar information to read?
dealing with pressure - can you work under time pressure and stay focused and effective? Can you deal with unfamiliar facts or people and stay calm?
resilience - how do you respond to being challenged? How do you respond when something does not go your way or in the face of a difficult problem? Can you defend your point of view?
interpersonal skills. Are you confident in what you are saying, are you collaborative, can you develop a good rapport and productive working relationships, do you listen well, are you open to feedback, do you have a positive attitude?
communication. Can you communicate equally effectively on paper (e.g. in writing a letter/email to a client) and face to face ( e.g. in making a presentation to a group)? Are you clear? Do you think about the tone and the reader/ audience? Do you have a high standard of general literacy? Is your answer well structured, communicated in plain English and to the point?
negotiation skills - are you clear about what you are trying to achieve and what, if anything you are prepared to negotiate on? If you are acting on behalf of someone, are they clear about what you are doing?
motivation – are you enjoying this even if you feel slightly nervous?

Types of Exercise and Tips for Managing Them

These exercises vary from firm to firm and can be part of an individual interview or a group exercise. The material could be given to you in any of the following formats:

a paragraph which may be about a current affairs issue or something specifically legal: read and then discuss
an article from, for example, the Financial Times : read and discuss/answer questions
a one or two page client scenario with a question posed at the end. For example, 'should this new client be taken on?'
Summary of the situation – could be in the form of an email or letter
Client or competitor strategy
Financial statements
Information about employees/equipment/other assets (property)
Contracts, leases, licences
Litigation, possible actions, non disclosure
Regulatory information

Tips for the paragraph and article exercises

Read carefully
Think about how you would summarise what the article is about in two or three sentences
Think about the argument/point of view that is being voiced throughout the article. What would be the counter argument if you had to make it?
Identify two or three key issues – think about political and economic aspects
There may not be an obvious connection to the law firm. The interviewer may be wanting to stretch you intellectually and see how you think, and find out whether you have an opinion that you are able to defend
If the article has been reproduced by the firm and is set out in numbered paragraphs, this is so that you can refer to the paragraphs by number in the discussion.

Tips for the client scenarios

Possible scenarios may include a client (or a potential client) who is considering merging or acquiring another company, or a client who is being acquired by a competitor or who is looking for some legal services. The amount of material and time you are given will determine the level of detail you are expected to cover. In general it is advisable to cover as many aspects as you can broadly, rather than cover only one or two in great detail.

You may be asked a general question such as ‘what advice would you give to the client?’ or three or four specific questions. For the latter it is most important to address all the questions rather than focusing on the detail of one and ignoring others.

It is also very useful to have researched the firm carefully. By doing do you will know facts such as where the firm has offices located (useful when there are several jurisdictions involved in the scenario) and which practice areas it has (allowing you to suggest bringing in expertise from elsewhere in the firm if appropriate).

Tips for “bundle of document” exercises

Some firms will give you anything between 5 and 20 documents to read and answer one or more questions. You may be asked to give a short presentation followed by a discussion with the interviewer(s).

Read the question(s) carefully and follow instructions
Flick through quickly to establish the contents and make sure you look at the back page. You may even find an index to help you
Take a minute to plan your time and leave enough to produce a presentation or at least review your thoughts before the interview
Use a highlighter
Identify key elements relevant to the question(s)
Don’t forget to consider whether the deal should even be done. Is there a deal breaker? Is there another option?
Consider risks to the client and/or to the firm. For example are there any reputational issues associated for either party? Is there any “conflict of interest” for the firm?
Structure the presentation: beginning, middle and end which should be short summary with recommendations. Be close to the maximum time allowed
Be confident in your recommendations, even if you feel that your chosen line of argument is marginal. You can assess the pros and cons of a given situation, but conclude with “on balance, I recommend xyz”. Remember that solicitors are paid to make decisions and that clients need to trust their legal advisers to make them!
Consider your audience
Imagine this was actually a real situation at work where you were involved in working with this client – what would you really say to them?
Check your grammar, spelling and punctuation.

Preparation

Here are some suggestions to help make you feel ready and confident to tackle these exercises:

Make sure that you research the role of a solicitor carefully such that you have a realistic view of their daily work (in the relevant setting), their responsilbilites and activities and even an awareness of the SRA's Code of Conduct for legal service firms and individuals.
Have a clear idea of the firm’s practice areas, what type of work they specialise in, where their offices are located, how they differentiate themselves from their key competitors and the challenges that law firms face.
Read the firm’s annual report or review (and compare it to a competitor), follow their news on Twitter in the weeks ahead of the interview.
Be aware of what is happening in the legal world.
Keep up to date with current affairs including areas of business that interest you.
Learn some basic business language, have a broad understanding of mergers and acquisitions and how they are structured. Know how to read a balance sheet.
Be clear on the importance of technology for all businesses.
Practise reading business articles in a set time and then summarise the key points.
You may find it useful to become familiar with some basic analysis tools used in business such as SWOT and PESTLE as they may help you think of areas to consider in some responses. Don't go overboard with these though as they might hinder your ability to write a clear and appropriate response if they are used incorrectly.
Complete some of the exercises that firms offer in their online work experience/online internship schemes. Many are listed on Forage.

Resources for Building Commercial Awareness

Good resources for City and global firms are:

All You Need To Know About The City by Chris Stoakes, and Commercial Law Handbook by Jake Schogger are useful preparation for understanding business terms, how deals work and general commercial awareness as it applies to the legal industry.

Useful websites include:

My experience on case study interview: How should you prepare for a case-study interview? - a Legal Case Study on LawCareers.Net
Chambers Student: Commercial Awareness Resources - Legal Blogs
Chambers Student: Legal industry trends
LawCareers.Net commercial awareness weekly round ups
UK Government guidance on how to set up a business
BBC News: Business
How to Read a Balance Sheet (The Non-Boring Version)
Linklaters “Commercial Awareness” advice
Virtual work experience programmes for several law firms including Linklaters, White & Case and Pinsent Masons are available on the Forage platform.
Warwick Place: news articles about challenges faced by law firms
legalfutures.co.uk – has a free newsletter rounding up key changes and news in the legal sector.
Our self directed learning information pages contain resources for free online courses
Investopedia has a good dictionary for business terms.

Building Your Commercial Awareness Skills at Oxford

Attend skills sessions run by law firms online as well as those run by The Careers Service , the Oxford Law Society , the Oxford Bar Society and the Law Faculty
The Oxford Strategy Challenge – ideal for building up team work, commercial awareness and skills in working with business clients. Run regularly throughout the year (online).
Insight into Strategy and Management – a short course, run each term, to improve your business knowledge.
Develop your employability skills – includes many ideas for building these at Oxford including practical suggestions for developing your “business awareness”.
Presentation and other assessment centre skills advice
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47 case interview examples (from McKinsey, BCG, Bain, etc.)

Case interview examples - McKinsey, BCG, Bain, etc.

One of the best ways to prepare for case interviews at firms like McKinsey, BCG, or Bain, is by studying case interview examples.

There are a lot of free sample cases out there, but it's really hard to know where to start. So in this article, we have listed all the best free case examples available, in one place.

The below list of resources includes interactive case interview samples provided by consulting firms, video case interview demonstrations, case books, and materials developed by the team here at IGotAnOffer. Let's continue to the list.

McKinsey examples
BCG examples
Bain examples
Deloitte examples
Other firms' examples
Case books from consulting clubs
Case interview preparation

Click here to practise 1-on-1 with MBB ex-interviewers

1. mckinsey case interview examples.

Beautify case interview (McKinsey website)
Diconsa case interview (McKinsey website)
Electro-light case interview (McKinsey website)
GlobaPharm case interview (McKinsey website)
National Education case interview (McKinsey website)
Talbot Trucks case interview (McKinsey website)
Shops Corporation case interview (McKinsey website)
Conservation Forever case interview (McKinsey website)
McKinsey case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)
McKinsey live case interview extract (by IGotAnOffer) - See below

2. BCG case interview examples

Foods Inc and GenCo case samples (BCG website)
Chateau Boomerang written case interview (BCG website)
BCG case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)
Written cases guide (by IGotAnOffer)
BCG live case interview with notes (by IGotAnOffer)
BCG mock case interview with ex-BCG associate director - Public sector case (by IGotAnOffer)
BCG mock case interview: Revenue problem case (by IGotAnOffer) - See below

3. Bain case interview examples

CoffeeCo practice case (Bain website)
FashionCo practice case (Bain website)
Associate Consultant mock interview video (Bain website)
Consultant mock interview video (Bain website)
Written case interview tips (Bain website)
Bain case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)
Digital transformation case with ex-Bain consultant
Bain case mock interview with ex-Bain manager (below)

4. Deloitte case interview examples

Engagement Strategy practice case (Deloitte website)
Recreation Unlimited practice case (Deloitte website)
Strategic Vision practice case (Deloitte website)
Retail Strategy practice case (Deloitte website)
Finance Strategy practice case (Deloitte website)
Talent Management practice case (Deloitte website)
Enterprise Resource Management practice case (Deloitte website)
Footloose written case (by Deloitte)
Deloitte case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

5. Accenture case interview examples

Case interview workbook (by Accenture)
Accenture case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

6. OC&C case interview examples

Leisure Club case example (by OC&C)
Imported Spirits case example (by OC&C)

7. Oliver Wyman case interview examples

Wumbleworld case sample (Oliver Wyman website)
Aqualine case sample (Oliver Wyman website)
Oliver Wyman case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

8. A.T. Kearney case interview examples

Promotion planning case question (A.T. Kearney website)
Consulting case book and examples (by A.T. Kearney)
AT Kearney case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

9. Strategy& / PWC case interview examples

Presentation overview with sample questions (by Strategy& / PWC)
Strategy& / PWC case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

10. L.E.K. Consulting case interview examples

Case interview example video walkthrough (L.E.K. website)
Market sizing case example video walkthrough (L.E.K. website)

11. Roland Berger case interview examples

Transit oriented development case webinar part 1 (Roland Berger website)
Transit oriented development case webinar part 2 (Roland Berger website)
3D printed hip implants case webinar part 1 (Roland Berger website)
3D printed hip implants case webinar part 2 (Roland Berger website)
Roland Berger case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

12. Capital One case interview examples

Case interview example video walkthrough (Capital One website)
Capital One case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

13. Consulting clubs case interview examples

Berkeley case book (2006)
Columbia case book (2006)
Darden case book (2012)
Darden case book (2018)
Duke case book (2010)
Duke case book (2014)
ESADE case book (2011)
Goizueta case book (2006)
Illinois case book (2015)
LBS case book (2006)
MIT case book (2001)
Notre Dame case book (2017)
Ross case book (2010)
Wharton case book (2010)

Practice with experts

Using case interview examples is a key part of your interview preparation, but it isn’t enough.

At some point you’ll want to practise with friends or family who can give some useful feedback. However, if you really want the best possible preparation for your case interview, you'll also want to work with ex-consultants who have experience running interviews at McKinsey, Bain, BCG, etc.

If you know anyone who fits that description, fantastic! But for most of us, it's tough to find the right connections to make this happen. And it might also be difficult to practice multiple hours with that person unless you know them really well.

Here's the good news. We've already made the connections for you. We’ve created a coaching service where you can do mock case interviews 1-on-1 with ex-interviewers from MBB firms . Start scheduling sessions today!

The IGotAnOffer team

At home, abroad, working, interning? Wherever you are this summer, contact OCS or make an appointment for a virtual advising session. We are available all summer!

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Case Interview Study Samples

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These case studies represent cases across firm styles (McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Deloitte, & more), including interviewer-led and interviewee-led (candidate-led) cases. The video examples demonstrate the nuances of the virtual case interview and include feedback from an MBB coach. The sessions feature consultants or consulting candidates.

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9 questions you might be asked in a law interview

Interviewing for a job in a field as prestigious and competitive as law can be nerve wracking. Preparation is key so practice and polish your answers to these common law interview questions

The type of interview you'll face when applying for a law job really depends on the firm and the role you've applied for, but candidates can often expect to face a telephone or video interview and a panel interview , which may be conducted by a combination of graduate recruitment and fee-earning colleagues.

Jack Yusuf, trainee solicitor at White & Case explains the three types of questions you'll come up against in a training contract job interview:

Motivational questions - where the interviewer will ask you to provide your personal reasons for becoming a commercial lawyer and for applying to the particular firm in question.
Competency questions - the interviewer will ask you to provide examples to show you have the specific attributes required of a trainee solicitor.
Commercial awareness questions - questions on commercial topics to better understand your level of commercial awareness.

When interviewing for training contracts you might also face a case study scenario, in which you'll review several documents and then present back to the panel on risks and opportunities facing the potential client.

Just like in all job interviews, it pays to be prepared. Take a look at the following example questions and discover how to answer them.

1. Why do you want to become a solicitor?

This sounds like an easy opening, but it throws many candidates off their stride.

When answering, consider the type of firm you're interviewing for. 'Commercial law firms want to know that you have a genuine and specific interest in commercial work, not just legal work generally,' advises Jack. 'Interviewers also want to know that you truly understand what the role entails.'

Look at the firm's main website - not just their recruitment website, as it often contains useful information about the sectors that the firm is active in.

This question can be phrased in number of ways, such as:

why choose a career in law?
why have you applied to us?

'Be specific and personal in your answer and provide examples of experiences that shaped your interests. Conversely, avoid general descriptors (e.g. 'fast-paced' or 'intellectually stimulating') that could apply to numerous other professions,' adds Jack.

Questions about why you chose the type of law you'd like to practice are also common, so be prepared to explain your choice.

Highlight your breadth of legal work experience and identify which specific element led you to pursue a career in your chosen specialism and why. Give details of the experience you've sought in your preferred field and how this has strengthened your interest in this area of law.

Vacation schemes aren't the only experience of value, so be sure to mention periods of work shadowing and relevant extracurricular activities. For example, you could use your experience volunteering with a victim's rights charity to demonstrate your passion for criminal law, your captaincy of a university sports team to show your interest in sports law or your creation and management of a local event, such as a fashion show or music or arts festival, to show your commerciality.

Gain an insight into the reality of working in law .

2. Have you applied to other firms?

This isn't a trick question. Be honest and specific in your answer.

Name two or three other firms that you've applied to, with a common reason why - such as they all share a similar culture, or they guarantee all trainees an international secondment. This demonstrates consistency in your applications. It shows the employer that you're committed to your field and determined to build a career in a certain practice area.

Don't be afraid to mention an application to a competitor firm. If you impress with the rest of your interview, this may work in your favour as recruiters are unlikely to want a talented candidate working for the competition.

3. What attracted you to this firm?

'The interviewer is looking to see that you have researched the firm and truly want to work there,' says Jack. 'Be specific to the firm and evidence your interest with any experience - for example, did you speak to a member of the firm at a university law fair? Attend an open day? Reach out to someone on LinkedIn? Did you attend a legal event where the firm presented?'

Also draw on experiences such as insight days and any work experience that confirmed they were the right firm for you.

Are there any benefits, initiatives, employee networks or schemes on offer unique to the firm that set them apart from their competitors? Bear in mind that answering 'Because you pay higher trainee salaries' is unlikely to impress.

Further demonstrate your knowledge by mentioning a couple of recent cases of interest or express a wish to work with specific clients.

You may also be asked:

What do you know about our firm?
Why do you want to work for us over our competitors?

Read up on top UK law firms then search for law jobs .

4. How would you make yourself stand out as a trainee?

Where training contracts are concerned there are far more applicants than places, so this is your opportunity to highlight your unique selling points and make clear what you could bring to the firm.

Identify key strengths and experiences using real, relevant examples. Don't just say that you're a great problem solver; instead tell the interviewer how you demonstrated this skill in a student mooting competition. 'Try to pick examples from a varied range of experiences, whether from your academic studies, legal work experience, employment, or extra-curricular activities,' adds Jack.

This is also a good time to demonstrate how the culture and values of the firm fit with your own. Are there any social or charity events that you'd be keen to get involved in? Are there any organisational sports teams you'd like to join? Would you like to play a role and make your mark on employee networks such as LGBTQ+, women's or ethnicity groups? Are there any gaps in the firm's social offering that you could fill?

5. If you could bring any law into force what would it be and why?

Another variation of this question is 'which law would you like to change and why?' Questions like this test your legislative knowledge, as well as provide an insight into your judicial opinions. Your response will also highlight the areas of law you're passionate about.

Avoid choosing anything too controversial. Picking a law or legal issue that has recently been in the news is a good option, as it demonstrates that your legal knowledge is up to date. Alternatively, choose to introduce a law that would directly benefit the firm or its clients.

6. Give an example of a time you used your ability to negotiate.

In a law interview demonstrating your knowledge of the firm is all well and good, but you also need to show that you're qualified for the job. This is where strength and competency-based questions come in.

These questions require you to give relevant examples of a time that you have demonstrated the necessary skills and competencies, and are a common feature of all job interviews .

Where possible use examples from your legal work experience, but don't be afraid to draw on your time at university, extracurricular activities, gap year experience or part-time work.

Use the STAR (situation, task, action and result) method to structure your answer.

Other skills and competency-based questions include:

Tell us about a time you worked as a team.
Give an example of a time you dealt with conflict and how you resolved this.
What achievement are you most proud of?
How would your friends describe you?

7. In a client meeting your supervisor gives incorrect advice. What do you do?

8. Can you talk us through a current issue affecting law firms?

When asked, legal recruiters say that commercial awareness is one of the most important skills that a candidate can possess.

Your response needs to prove that you have an understanding of industry, regulatory, economic, cultural and social issues, as well as company identity and structure.

To tackle questions surrounding commercial awareness watch the news and read newspapers daily. Sign up to legal newsletters and set up notification alerts on you phone to receive the latest business news. Check firm websites and follow their social media accounts.

Alternatively, you may be asked:

What are the main challenges facing city law firms today?
What recent legal stories have caught your eye and how are they progressing?

9. Which three historical figures would you invite to a dinner party and why?

Not all candidates come up against off-the-wall questions, but some firms use them to get to know an interviewee better and to test how they think on their feet.

In the majority of instances there is no right or wrong answer - so don't panic. Recruiters simply want to hear how you think through an issue.

Talk through your response to demonstrate logical thinking and conversational ability and back it up with an explanation.

Law firm interview tips

A good way to round up your interview is by taking the opportunity to ask some questions of your own. Ask questions that demonstrate your interest in progression and building a long-term career with the firm. For example, ask about the kind of responsibility given to trainees, skills that the interviewer has found important in previous trainees and any plans the firm has for expansion or investment over the next few years. When it comes to asking more general questions, see 7 good questions to ask at an interview .

The best advice is to remember that interviews are all about people. While this is your opportunity to discover if you'd like to work for the firm, the interviewer is trying to find out if you'd be a valuable addition to their team. The interviewer is working out whether they want to work with you. They're trying to figure out if you'll be worth the investment. Would they be happy to work with you every day? Can they put you in front of a client? Don't be intimidated. Be positive and be yourself.

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Commercial Law Academy

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22 expert-led courses covering applications, psychometric tests, interviews, commercial awareness, internships and professional skills

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Hundreds of recent successful applications, plus Jake's commentary on why examples are strong and what could potentially be improved.

14 example commercial and legal interview case studies based on real law firm interviews, with detailed model answers and guidance.

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Oxford Law: Tips & Questions for Interview

In this article we will guide you on how to best prepare for your Oxford Law interview , with guides on past Oxford Law questions, interview tips, mock examples and real experiences from students who have sat the Oxford Law Panel interview.

The Law Faculty at Oxford University has created this video of a mock interview – it may be useful to watch, to get an idea of what the interview process will be like.

What is the Oxford Law interview structure?

When you are interviewed at Oxford for Law, you will be invited to a particular college to interview. It is highly likely that you will receive two interviews at that college, to give you more chance to showcase your abilities. Furthermore, there is a chance that you will also be interviewed at a second college – though this will only be one interview, taking place a bit later in the week.

It is important to recognise that the Oxford Law interviews are not aimed towards testing your current legal knowledge – they will primarily consist of legally related questions and various intellectual logic puzzles (which will test your legal analysis skills). In some cases, you may be given an extract of a legal document (or something similar) to read beforehand, and discuss during the interview. Once again, this will not require you to have any prior knowledge of the law – they are testing how well you are able to learn from new information, and how well you might do as a law student (e.g., by testing your logical thinking skills).

What are the Oxford Law interview dates?

It is expected that the Oxford Law interview dates for 2024 entry will take place in early December. Your first college interviews will take place at the beginning of December. You will then receive communication on whether you have second college interviews usually in the same week. These second college interviews will likely take place in the second week of December. It has not yet been communicated whether interviews will take place online via Microsoft Teams or in person.

Example Past Questions from Oxford Law interview

General questions:.

Why choose Law?
Is there a particular reason you chose to apply to Oxford?
Why Law at Oxford specifically?
Questions concerning areas in your personal statement, such as books you have read.

Case study questions:

Giving you a scenario and asking how you would handle it, or what law you might write to deal with the situation
Giving you a short piece of writing to read and discuss
Giving you a legal rule, then telling you a situation and asking how you would apply the rule

Oxford Law Example Questions:

Running a red light: Running a red light in the middle of the night on an empty road is illegal. Should this be the case?
Locked room: My friend locks me in a room, telling me I can come out if I pay them £5. Is this a deprivation of freedom?
Taking a car: What does it mean for me to ‘take’ someone else’s car? (Consider: can I take a car if I do not drive it away?)
Giving you a longer piece to read prior to the interview, which will then be discussed during the interview
Marmalade in eggs: A wife has expressed previously to her husband her extreme distaste for putting marmalade in eggs at breakfast. He continues to do so. Is this grounds for divorce?
Can you imagine a world without laws?
School uniform: Is making children wear school uniform breaching their human rights?
Bank dilemma: I go to the bank, and the bank manager tells me I have £100 in my account. I then go out and spend £100, given the bank manager’s information. However, the manager was incorrect, and I actually only had £90. Who is at fault here? Should I have to pay the bank back?
Questions concerning the definitions of certain things – such as a criminal act – and breaking this definition down. E.g., looking at the definition of ‘murder’ as “intentionally causing the death of someone else”.

Insider Guides: Oxford Law Interview

What happens on the day of your oxford law interview .

I had interviews in person – while yours maybe be online, so your experience may be a little different. The interviews themselves will be the same, but I was staying in Oxford and the college I interviewed at (Christ Church) held events for the students staying there, which I’m not sure you will have. The schedule of interviews was published at the beginning of the process on a board in the college – this will likely be sent to you online ahead of time. I just arrived at the assigned room on time for the interview, and all went as planned.

What do you have to bring to your Oxford Law interview?

We were not allowed any personal items, and had to leave our phones outside of the interview room. I would recommend you have a pen and some paper with you in case you need to scribble anything down during the interview. The dress code was smart casual.

What is the Oxford Law interview setting and how long is it?

I attended two interviews at Christ Church, and each of them was in a separate room of a different professor. The setting in both interviews was very informal, we were all sitting in armchairs and couches around a coffee table. Each one lasted around 45-50 minutes.

Oxbridge Interview Tips Questions Tutoring

What are the Oxford Law interviewers like?

In the first interview I had, the interviewers were extremely friendly and welcoming. They really made me feel comfortable and confident about my performance. Meanwhile, the second interview was very cold and a bit difficult to navigate. I remember that after one of my answers, the professor remarked that everything I said was wrong! This totally put me off track until the end of the interview.

The interviewers asked questions from a generic pre-determined list, but at times they would ask a follow-up based on my responses.

What are the best tips for planning my trip for my Oxford Law interview?

The college should provide you with all relevant information in that regard ahead of time, so you won’t be confused about anything. If you do have any questions, make sure to email/ring someone to gain some clarity! Everyone was very friendly and helpful during my interviews.

Are there any academic or challenging Law questions at the Oxford interview?

Many of the questions were challenging – things like providing me with hypothetical legal scenarios and asking me to evaluate whether the defendant would be guilty of criminal damage, based on an extract from the Criminal Damage Act 1971, which they gave me a few minutes to read.

Are there any personality, work experience or extracurricular based Law questions at the Oxford interview?

I was asked about my personal statement – to clarify why I chose to apply to Law over PPE or another politics-focussed degree, since I had made several allusions to politics in my personal statement. I was also asked about my extracurriculars – they asked what key skills I had developed through my extracurriculars (MUN, volunteering, playing tennis), and how they can help me to thrive in Oxford, both academically and in the wider student community.

Top Tips for the Oxford Law interview

Familiarise yourself with possible case study formats – namely, analysing a legal case or commenting on hypotheticals based on a piece of legislation.
Come off as enthusiastic, but not overly keen and naive – studying law is difficult, so don’t downplay it.
Really find a unique and personal explanation for the ‘why law?’ question . When asked ‘why law?’, lots of students go on to argue why they don’t want to study history/PPE/classics/etc., as opposed to uncovering their interest in legal scholarship.
Link your responses to personal experiences from your work experience, extracurriculars, and academics.
Make sure you know any book or legal case inside out if you mentioned them in your personal statement.

Top Tips for the “Why Oxford” interview question

I focused on the tutorial system at Oxford
Personally, I also prefer Oxford’s examination system, where you sit all exams at the end of the final year, as opposed to taking them each year.
You can also look at the courses offered within the Law degree at Oxford, and consider whether any of them are particularly interesting to you.

My favourite thing about studying Law at Oxford University

My favourite thing is the possibility to dig into a specific topic as much as I want. For example, I really disliked some of my private law subjects (e.g. trusts), but I could spend ages reading about administrative law, and my professor was very supportive in stimulating my interest in public law.

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legal careers guide

8. preparing for legal job interviews.

This Step looks at how you can prepare for law job interviews to maximise your chances of success.

Updated Resource Book coming soon

Before your interview

Check the invitation – is there a requirement to do preparatory work?
Research - the recruiter, competitors, the market, legal news and current affairs.
Re-read your CV or application form - are there any gaps that the interviewer is likely to ask about? Think about what you have to offer the recruiter and what your main strengths are.
Look at the professional codes of conduct if you are applying for trainee or pupillage positions.
Plan what to wear - keep it formal.
Book a mock interview with one of our career advisers - check whether the employability service has any further information on the firm or chambers.

General tips for a legal job interview success

Speak clearly and slowly (if you are nervous, you are likely to speed up).
Provide a logical structure to your answers. For example: “I think there are three main issues... Firstly…Secondly… and finally…”
Think before you speak - it is perfectly acceptable to pause before answering in order to collect your thoughts.
Although you need to prepare for questions, remember that you are likely to need to think on your feet and it is good to show that you are not over-rehearsed.
Be interested and engaged - show you are listening by referring back to something an interviewer has said.

What should you prepare for a legal job interview?

Interview checklist.

Central to your interview preparation is knowing about the recruiting organisation. Download our checklists below to help you identify key information for each recruiter.

Interview checklist for barristers ➔

Interview checklist for solicitors ➔

Frequently Asked Questions

I have my first law job interview. what should i wear.

Congratulations - now is the time to invest in formal clothing if you have not already. Even if your interviewers have a relaxed dress code, the law is a conservative profession so it’s wise to be cautious with your outfit choice for your interview.

For women, it’s best to opt for a plain, dark suit, low heels, tidy hair, and nothing too excessive by way of makeup, nail varnish and jewellery. For men, much the same: conservative suit, shirt and simple tie with smart polished shoes.

The recruiter said I was "over prepared". What does that mean?

It is difficult to ensure that you’re well prepared for an interview without coming across as over rehearsed. The law firm will want to make a judgement on the ‘real you’ and this can be difficult if your answers seem scripted.

Don’t stop preparing yourself for legal job interviews, but use these tips on the day:

try to relax
listen to the questions you’re being asked and tailor your answers to those questions
show that you are listening and thinking on your feet by occasionally repeating back part of the question to the interviewer in your answer
when asked if you have any questions of your own, try and relate your questions to something the interviewer previously said. For example: “I was very interested when you mentioned… how do you see that developing in the future?”

If you’re studying with us, you can book a mock interview session with a member of our careers team. Remember that you’re doing something right to be getting asked to interviews and the practice you’ve had so far is invaluable for improving your technique each time.

I still have not heard back following my interview What shall I do?

Ring the recruiter - either the graduate recruitment department, if there is one, or the person who interviewed you. Apologise for bothering them and ask for an update on the situation.

Next step: 9

Go to step 9 in the Student Employability Programme.

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Law Firm Insights

Welcome to the Law Firms page! Here, you can find extra information about various law firms, as well as case studies and interviews with current solicitors and trainees.

Deciding on Law
How to Become a Lawyer
Areas of Law
Solicitor vs Barrister
What is a Solicitor
Becoming a Barrister
Legal Executive
What Is A Legal Secretary?
How to Become a Judge
Legal Apprenticeships
Studying Law at University
Law at Oxbridge
Studying Law Abroad
Personal Statement
Law Research Techniques & Resources
Commercial Awareness
Law Work Experience

Vacation Schemes

Law Courses
Non-Law Students
PGDL (Conversion)
Bar Training Guide

Training Contracts

Law Firm Applications

Pupillage: a Guide for Aspiring Barristers

Magic Circle Law Firms
What Are The Top American Law Firms In London?
Allen & Overy: Internship Insight
Clifford Chance: Top Tips
Clifford Chance Interview
Linklaters: Top Tips
Freshfields: Top Tips
Bird & Bird: Diversity
Bird & Bird: Case Study
Dentons: Apprenticeships
Gibson Dunn: Trainee Case Study
Herbert Smith: Trainees
Hogan Lovells Training Contract Insights
Penningtons: 1st Year Trainee Diary
Penningtons: 2nd Year Trainee Diary
Simmons & Simmons
Networking Guide
Diversity In Law

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie is the second-largest law firm in the world by number of employees and also revenue.

You can take a look at their training contract application calendar here:

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird are a top law firm with over 1200 legal advisors globally and specialising in business sectors with technological components.

You can read about their amazing Bursary Programme, encouraging more diversity in the legal sphere.

Alternatively, we have a case study from a participant in their Bursary and Pioneer Programmes.

Dentons is actually the world’s largest law firm by number of lawyers, working in commercial law.

They’ve recently launched an innovative apprenticeship scheme for aspiring solicitors.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

Freshfields is a multinational law firm that was founded in over 250 years ago! They are one of the 5 members of the Magic Circle.

A trainee from Freshfields gave us an overview of her training contract and what advice she’d share.

We also conducted an interview with a member of the Freshfields graduate recruitment team about training contracts.

Here, Freshfields gave their top advice for applying for training contracts.

Gibson Dunn

Gibson Dunn is a global law firm that’s based predominately in America, and is renowned for its litigation practise.

A trainee from Gibson Dunn, but based in London, spoke to us about his vacation scheme and his experiences working for an American law firm in the UK.

Herbert Smith Freehills

Herbert Smith Freehills is an international law firm formed from the merging of UK-based Herbert Smith with Australian-based Freehills.

We caught up with two trainees from Herbert Smith Freehills, who discussed training contracts and their lives as trainee solicitors.

We also spoke to a representative at Herbert Smith Freehills who offered us some advice about what they look for in their candidates.

Hogan Lovells

Hogan Lovells is a multinational firm with headquarters both in London and Washington D.C.

It specialises in “government regulatory, litigation and arbitration, corporate, finance, and intellectual property”.

Read the top insights from four trainees currently at Hogan Lovells with our guide Hogan Lovells: Trainee Insights !

Penningtons Manches

Penningtons Manches is a UK law firm who specialise in “dispute resolution, corporate and commercial, real estate, private client and family”.

Two trainee solicitors talk us through a typical day as part of their training contracts.

Read first-year-trainee Eva’s account here:

Or take a look at KC’s second-year diary here:

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons is a global practise with 21 offices across the world.

Three trainees from Simmons & Simmons gave us brief insights into what it’s like working for such a huge law firm.

A fourth seat trainee also gave us an insight into training contract applications.

Finally, you can find two vacation scheme case studies for Simmons & Simmons.

Taylor Vinters

Taylor Vinters is an international law firm with offices in London, Cambridge and Singapore.

Their HR Manager revealed the crucial advice on obtaining a training contract.

She also shared her top tips with us.

Take a look at Taylor Vinter’s Life as a trainee at Taylor Vinters video:

Law Firm Opportunities

Law Firm Directory

Explore key stats, training opportunities and more with our detailed law firm listings.

Stay ahead of the game and keep track of upcoming training contract deadlines.

Keep track of the latest deadlines & get your foot in the door of a top law firm.

Law Firm Open Days

Don't miss an opportunity to meet law firms & register for upcoming open days.

What Are The Magic Circle Law Firms?

Legal case studies and written exercises

As part of the recruitment process, in this kind of exercise you are given a set of papers relating to a particular situation and asked to make recommendations in a brief report. The firm will pick a case study relevant to the work they do. You are provided with a large amount of factual information.

The most common written exercise is writing a letter to a client on whether or not to proceed with a business proposal, once you have read the relevant documents. You may be asked to present advice to the client (usually played by a partner) or answer questions on the case. You are being tested on your ability to:

Analyse information
Think clearly and logically
Exercise your judgement
Express yourself on paper/ present yourself to a client

Examples of exercises

Investment project - given a bundle of documents including letter from the bank, background information on accounts. Should the client invest?
Write a report summarising the information given about an energy firm wanting to take over an urban community regeneration scheme. Look at the strengths, risks, obstacles to scheme and suggestions about whether it should move forward.
Given a lengthy consultant's report with half an hour to read and then draft a presentation recommending whether to go ahead on buying the company - followed by questions.
The client, a steel company, is losing money due to a rival. There's also a proceeding against your client. The rival company is thinking of merging with / acquiring your client's company. Look at the extract of a contract between the client and the steel supplier and advise your client of the pros and cons regarding the proceeding.
Given an accident and medical report and photos - written answers to a series of questions.
Proposed M&A - pick out the relevant parts to read and then present to the interviewers on what you feel is the correct course of action.
Legal interpretation question based on fictional health and safety legislation.
Interpret a section of the mental health act - answer questions from the interviewer.
Employment service contract - review in order to answer 10 set questions.
Five passages to rewrite in layman's terms.
Draft a letter of complaint to a local electrical store regarding faulty goods.
Read a case study on police ill treatment and then draft a report on the legal matters arising from it.

Individual tasks

Candidates generally work independently on such an exercise and their recommendation or decision is usually to be communicated in the form of a brief written report and/or a presentation made to the assessors. Ensure your thought processes are clearly articulated and available for the scrutiny of the assessors. Of paramount importance, if the brief requires a decision to be made, ensure that a decision is made and articulated.

Group tasks

You may be asked to do a case study as a group. It is likely to be along the lines of the first two exercises in the example with information given to the group to sift through and pull out the key facts. At the end the group will be asked to present to the interviewers, outlining the issues involved and key recommendations and then take questions as a group.

Letter drafting criteria

If in the exercise you are involved in drafting a letter, as part of the assessment the interviewer will check that it:

Protects the interests of the client
Meets the client's objectives
Addresses all relevant factual and legal issues
Identifies relevant options
Is logically organised
Is consistent and coherent
Is clear and concise

Other preparation

In addition to the general preparation your course provides, you could also:

Find out what sort of cases your employer specialises in
Practice a Watson Glaser test, a critical reasoning test often used by firms at assessment centres
Practice 'skim' reading which is an important skill. This feedback from a candidate demonstrates this: 'The exercise was very time-pressured and I made the mistake of reading all of the information given before starting to write anything down. I got the impression that not all of the info was supposed to be relevant and that they were testing our ability to sift through written material to extract the most important things.'

Don't focus on the technicalities

Non-law students often do well on these exercises as they do not have the relevant knowledge of the law and so focus on sifting the information, whereas law students often get too involved with trying to understand the information in legal terms.

Useful Information

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Law Careers

Applications and interviews for students with disabilities

February 13 2018

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Law and legal services Information for LLM students

Law and legal services Providers of postgraduate courses in law

Law and legal services In-house law

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100 Law School Interview Questions and Answers

Featured Expert: Aaron Schulze, JD

Practicing with law school interview questions and answers is essential if you want to be prepared. Given how intimidating law school acceptance rates can be, it is normal to be nervous, and you have to make sure to do everything possible to increase your chances of success. If you are not sure where to start, our law school admissions consulting experts have prepared a list of 60 common and challenging interview questions with example answers!

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 15 min read

Quick guide to preparing for your law school interviews.

It’s important to know that not all law schools interview. Most law schools in the US and law schools in Canada leave the decision to interview an applicant up to the admissions committee – in other words, it is not a mandatory step in the admissions process. So the admissions committee can choose to invite someone to an interview or simply reach out to a student via phone. This is exactly the experience of our admissions expert Aaron Schulze, JD:

“I actually did not have any interviews. I applied a bit later in the application cycle and did not get any interviews. I was waitlisted by one of my top choices and had a very informal call a few days before decisions were made. However, it was primarily to determine if I was still interested and to inform me that I had been accepted.” – Aaron Schulze, JD, University of Texas School of Law

Some of the top tier law schools among the T14 law schools interview by invitation only, which means that not all the applicants who get accepted have to go through an interview. Getting an interview invite from one of these schools may mean that the admissions committee wants to get to know you a little better or to give you a chance to clarify some of their questions for you and your application. This can happen in a formal interview, or via phone like it happened to Aaron.

This is one of the most common categories of law school interview questions. And it is no surprise. Ultimately, what the admissions committee wants to see from your application is what motivated you to become a lawyer, and what steps have you taken to prepare yourself for this career. As already mentioned, in some cases if you are invited for an interview, the admissions committee did not fully understand your drive to pursue law. Use the interview to demonstrate your suitability and readiness for law!

Law school interview prep includes researching the school you're applying to before your interview. You should be able to state the reasons why you like the institution and its specific program and convince the interviewer that you didn't just randomly end up sitting in front of them. At the end of the day, only the candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in becoming a part of the program will be admitted, and the only way to prove that is by naming particular aspects of what they offer that attracted your attention. Here’s how our expert Aaron Schulze prepared for each application and interview:

“I applied to about four or five law schools. [I] absolutely modified [my application and interview answers for each school]. Though the stories remained relatively constant, each school has its own [traits]. I tailored [my application and interview answers] to fit each school.” - Aaron Schulze, JD, University of Texas School of Law

It is likely that you already mentioned this in your law school personal statement, or your law school diversity statement, so make sure your answer is consistent with that as well. It does not mean that you have to repeat what you included exactly but do stay consistent with your goals and aspirations.

Check Out Our Podcast for More Free & Useful Content ","buttonText":"Go to Podcast","buttonColor":"#ff6600","trustpilot":false}" :url=""https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/ca\/podcast\/bemo-admissions-experts-podcast\/id1642349082"" code="bannerpodcast" background-color="#000000" button-color="#ff6600" banner-image> Saying that you chose their school because of its academic prestige won't be enough, as you can say the exact same thing about any other school. You must be specific. Start by mentioning what you look for in the perfect school. What features, programs, or extracurriculars do you value the most? Secondly, state what makes this school competitive for you. Think of what makes this school different from other schools, and what it has to offer to you specifically. Lastly, highlight what you think you will learn at this school. Secondly, this type of questions is your opportunity to brag and talk about what makes you special – while remaining humble! Law schools typically want their candidates to bring them recognition and have a positive impact on their academic reputation. Admissions committees, therefore, aim at finding candidates who are likely to surpass the others and become successful after they graduate. Your answer should make you memorable. Think of your skills, experience career goals, and strengths, and figure out how they fit into what the school values in their matriculants. Use those traits to convince them that you are a good fit. Here’s an example of how our expert Aaron Schulze, JD, convinced the committee of his suitability for Criminal Law: “I had a nontraditional major for law school (Theater & Dance). I explained how my fine arts education created a foundation for truthful storytelling and how to perform authentically. I was interested in Criminal Defense so I explained how a degree in Theater allowed me to understand and relate to different characters in different circumstances.” - Aaron Schulze, JD, University of Texas School of Law

And remember, storytelling is the only strategy to convince the admissions committee that your motivations are genuine. Tell the story of how you became interested in law as a career. Make it detailed, engaging, and convincing. Choose 2-3 talking points or examples of what got you interested in this particular law school and law in general. Think of the qualities of a good lawyer and explain why you believe you have the potential to become one.

Here's a few good examples of this type of law school interview questions, and expert responses prepared by our admissions experts!

Why Did You Choose Our School?

\u201cWhen I think of my ideal school, I think of an institution that offers students excellent career-placement opportunities, which is something not every school has. That is why I was thrilled to discover that X school offers an internship program, which I consider an ideal first step in any professional career. While academic achievements and learning inside the classroom are the backbone of becoming a successful professional, I strongly believe that all law schools should give students the possibility to acquire first-hand work experience to fully prepare them for what comes next. Additionally, an aspect of the program that I greatly value is the fact that it has some amazing top-class professors, such as [a certain professor], who I admire greatly, especially after attending his seminar on environmental law. In fact, I believe this school encourages students to get involved in current issues that go beyond the scope of traditional law education, such as racial discrimination, gender equality, and exploitation of natural resources, which are topics I expect to be able to learn more about if I get accepted.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

Why Should We Choose You of All Candidates?

\u201cI grew up in a family of lawyers. Both my parents and two of my grandparents have had outstanding careers in the field of law. Legal cases were often discussed at home, and I witnessed what the daily life of a successful lawyer entails. As I grew up, I started developing an intense curiosity for law, and my parents didn't hesitate to feed that curiosity. At a certain point, I had become so involved in my parents' jobs, that they decided it wasn't healthy for me at such a young age and banned case discussion in the house. It was then that I started researching famous cases, defense strategies, and growing a genuine interest in becoming a lawyer myself. I was never that kid who was told \u201cyou are going to be a great lawyer\u201d, and unlike what you might be thinking, my family never pressured me into following a family tradition, but even quite the opposite. If you are looking for candidates who are truly determined, I believe you should choose me because I am aware of what a career in law consists of. I have been convinced for years that I have what it takes to take on this challenge, not only because I am passionate about law, but also because I have a deep understanding of it.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab2" template="BlogArticle">

Why Do You Want to Become a Lawyer?

\u201cBelieve it or not, I grew up convinced that one day I was going to become a successful athlete. I believed that was my fate and never even considered anything else. I started swimming when I was practically a baby and never stopped since. I had become so good that I actually had a chance of qualifying for the Olympics. But my training was intensive and expensive. I had full support from my mom, but my dad disapproved of me focusing on sports instead of academics. Arguments at home became an everyday thing and my parents decided to get divorced. Apparently, it was too hard for them to reach an agreement and they started a legal war that went on for way too long, partly because their lawyers were more interested in getting more money out of the case than in representing the interests of their clients. A good lawyer is supposed to be ethical and act in their client's best interest. Even though I fully understood the divorce hadn't been my fault, I always felt stuck in the middle. I felt so powerless I even started researching how divorces work, legally speaking, and getting involved in the resolution of this conflict. This experience made me realize how much damage an unscrupulous lawyer can bring to a family, and I decided to go to law school make it my life mission to become the lawyer my family needed in such a difficult time; a professional with principles, empathy, and solid communication skills.\" ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab3" template="BlogArticle">

What Do You Hope to Do in Law School?

\u201cOne of the things I am excited for, and one of the reasons I chose to apply to Georgetown, is the experiential learning program. Something I hope to do is sit in on legal proceedings in the highest courts in the country and witness many levels of the law, from small court cases to criminal law to lawmaking. With your program's experiential learning focus, I feel I would get the real-world taste of law in action rather than only classroom setting. I hope to use the experiences I witness and participate in to help me shape the kind of lawyer I want to be.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab4" template="BlogArticle">

What's One Thing That You Might be Scared or Hesitant About in Law School?

\u201cLaw school requires a great deal of reading and reading of sometimes dry subjects. As a student who always struggled with reading comprehension and was a slow reader, I know this will be more of a challenge for me. However, during my undergraduate years I had access to better resources and more information about my reading challenges. I discovered I actually had an undiagnosed learning disability, a mild form of dyslexia which made it difficult for me to recognize words on the page. I was able to utilize study strategies to improve my reading comprehension and speed, and by using particular fonts or wearing reading glasses, I could read most texts with much more ease. The success of these strategies was reflected in my grades also improving. I also had help from tutors, which helped me gain confidence and implement new strategies. I know that reading is still difficult for me, but it is an obstacle I am confident I can overcome.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab5" template="BlogArticle">

Here's some more law school-focused questions you can practice with for your interview:

How will you contribute to this program?
What attracts you about law?
What are the qualities of a good lawyer?
Is there a famous lawyer that you admire? Why?
Is there a famous lawyer that you disagree with? Why?
What areas of law interest you the most?
What would make you a good lawyer?
What is your dream law job?
How did you investigate a career in law?
Are there any lawyers in your family?
What do you wish to accomplish as a lawyer?
Why are you applying to law school now?
What’s one thing that intimidates you about law school?
What makes you a competitive applicant to this school?
Are you also applying to other law schools?
If you get accepted into multiple schools, how would you make your decision?
What do you think are the pros and cons of this school in particular?
What specific aspect of our program called your attention?
Do you have any questions for us?
Do you know what type of law you want to practice? Why?
What two or three things are most important to you in a law school?
What’s a personality trait/characteristic that will serve you well in law school?
What changes would you make in our law school curriculum?
What mark do you want to make or what do you hope to accomplish in your career as a lawyer?
How have you begun preparing for law school?

Here are some more law school interview questions to review!

Personal Law School Interview Questions

Remember, the objective of the interview is to get to know you better. They already have your law school CV and law school personal statement , so you do not give a rote answer, or list off your GPA and LSAT score. While these are important, the admissions committee is aware of your stats. Most law schools try to follow a holistic approach in admissions, so use the interview to show them your strengths! Our admissions expert Tyler Chiasson reflects on his own admission to law school:

“My GPA was very strong and my LSAT score was high at 165. I was accepted to University of Toronto (generally the hardest law school in Canada to get into) and the acceptance letter mentioned my superior academic record was the main reason for this. After choosing to go to Dalhousie, I could also see I was accepted due to my academic record – Dalhousie classified the students they accept based on the strongest part of their application (academics, community involvement, etc.) and you can actually see what they classified you as once you start attending. This showed me that applications are scored holistically. If you are very strong in a certain area like I was, weaknesses in your application will be overlooked. Many of my classmates had much lower LSAT scores than me (in mid to low 150s) but were accepted due to their extracurriculars or volunteerism or other factors.” – Tyler Chiasson, JD, Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University

What this shows us that your interview can really act as a compensation for anything that raised questions for the admissions committee (maybe the reason why you are having this interview!) You want to talk about what makes you interesting, or in other words, why you are NOT like every other applicant. Your interviewers want to get to know you personally, so try to infuse your answer with some personality, not only what you’ve done, although that’s important too.

Personal questions are about telling a story of triumphs, failures, and other experiences, that helped you grow as a human being and as a future lawyer! Whether these questions are about your past experiences or your future goals, try to paint a picture of what you can do now! And our admissions expert Tyler reminds:

“Most [of your stories and experiences] can be discussed in a way that highlights some aspect or skill that will be applicable to law school. [Make sure to approach this question with this mindset].” - Tyler Chiasson, JD, Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University

And remember that answering negatively-charged law school interview question can be tricky. You have to walk a fine line between being honest and forthright without being self-defeating. Here’s a quick answer structure you can use to answer personal law school interview questions about past behaviors and experiences:

Provide a very short context about the situation you are talking about.
Use one or two sentences to demonstrate specific actions, behaviors, or tasks you performed in the situation. Use concrete examples.
Write one sentence about what you learned from dealing with this situation.

Most personal-type questions can be answered with this structure, but if you are asked about future goals and plans, consider the following:

You've probably thought a lot about your future while deciding whether a career in law is the right path for you to follow. The more specific your answer is, the better. It will show your determination to pursue this challenging career. Your answer to personal law school interview question about your goals should include a detailed description of how your chosen program is going you help you get to where you want to be. The sky is the limit! No answer will be too ambitious here. Moreover, admissions committees love applicants who can dream big.

Describe a Time When Telling the Truth Was Difficult.

\u201cSeveral years ago, I had to confront a long-term friend of mine about their actions. I found out they had plagiarized another student's essay, from another class, in order to make a grade and pass a class. After speaking to the friend about their academic dishonesty, they refused to follow my advice and come clean. When I realized it was now on me to tell the truth and report my friend's plagiarizing, since they would not, it was a difficult decision for me to make, since it would affect my friendship with this person. Before this incident, it had never occurred to me that my friend would plagiarize anything, and I knew there would be severe consequences for their actions if I reported. Ultimately, I did speak to the class instructor in question and was honest about what I knew. My telling the truth did end a long-term friendship for me, as my friend felt I was unsupportive and should not have reported them. Losing their friendship was hard for me, since I had known them for so many years, but I felt I had a duty to tell the truth and to protect the other student whose essay had been plagiarized.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab6" template="BlogArticle">

What is something that you think differently about or has changed about you personally as you have matured?

\u201cFor me, personally, the biggest change I've noticed in myself as I've matured is self-confidence. I used to be a \u201cfollower\u201d, having low self-confidence and assuredness in my opinions and decisions. This changed after I was elected captain of the girls\u2019 volleyball team at college. Though I was chosen for my athletic skills, I learned how to be a leader in more than just sports. As a captain of my team, I have learned to rely on my own judgments and observations and trust my decision-making abilities. I've taught myself to consider the voices of others instead of automatically accepting them, and to weigh the options of a decision instead of relying on someone else to direct me all the time. Most importantly, I think, I've learned to accept the consequences of any bad decisions or mistakes I've made. I've learned how to find opportunities for growth in making a mistake and how to accept that mistakes will sometimes happen. This has been a significant improvement in my life, as the resulting boost in self-confidence has meant I am much better at making those tough decisions and being a leader when I need to be instead of defaulting to follower.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab7" template="BlogArticle">

What is something that you have learned from [activity/hobby]?

\u201cGolfing has taught me precision and patience. Golf is a very technical game, and it requires considering all the factors on each and every swing to be a superb player. Failing to consider even one factor or not double-checking your grip, position, sightlines or angles can throw off a swing. It's important to go slow, be considerate and not jump ahead or skip any steps in the name of saving time . Precision and consideration are important skills I will need as I become a lawyer, since not doing my due diligence or being careless could impact clients' lives and businesses. The careful checklist I go through before every golf swing has taught me how important it is to do the same when evaluating a case, considering my strategies and analyzing small details.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab8" template="BlogArticle">

Tell me about yourself.

These experiences at CRLA were not just about applying legal principles; they were about connecting with people's lives and making a tangible difference. They strengthened my resolve to pursue law, particularly to advocate for those often forgotten in policy discussions about healthcare and housing. As I apply to Berkeley Law School, I carry these stories with me, aspiring to be a voice for the underrepresented in our society.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab9" template="BlogArticle">

Tell me something that is not on your resume.

\u201cOne thing that's not on my resume is my passion for astronomy. Ever since I was a child, the night sky has fascinated me. Last summer, I collaborated with a local astronomy club to bring telescopes and arranged for a few amateur astronomers to guide us. We set up the equipment and invited community members to join us in observing the night sky. The event was a hit! People of all ages came and were thrilled to see the rings of Saturn and the craters on the Moon up close. It was incredibly rewarding to share my passion with others and to see their excitement and curiosity about space.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab10" template="BlogArticle">

What do you like to do in your spare time?

\u201cI love to cook. I love sharing meals with people and I try to host at least one person over for dinner every month because I\u2019m always learning new recipes I want to try out. I wasn\u2019t always interested in cooking, but one of my best friends is a chef and I think they inspired me \u2013 their passion was contagious. I\u2019ve taken cooking classes, such as learning how to make different types of Italian noodles such as gnocchi and tortellini, but Asian noodles, as well, such as Soba and Udon noodles. I am very diligent about everything I do, including my hobbies, so I aim to continue to improve as a cook while I am studying to become a lawyer.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab11" template="BlogArticle">

What was your biggest accomplishment?

\u201cIt may not be as life-altering as a substance addiction, but I struggled with an addiction to technology for around five years. As with any addiction, it started off innocuously; I justified it by telling myself I needed to be online for my studies. However, over time, it escalated to the point where I was constantly glued to screens, neglecting my health, relationships, and responsibilities. Whenever my partner and friends told me they were worried about how much time I was spending online, I used my studies and getting into law school as my justification. But when my partner told me she felt like she was alone in our relationship, I took that to heart. I locked myself out of all my devices, and bought a flip-phone with only the most basic services. I set a limit to how much time I spent online and engaged in real-life activities such as hiking, and spending time with my partner. This experience taught me the importance of moderation and self-awareness, and has made me more empathetic towards others' struggles.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab12" template="BlogArticle">

What was your biggest mistake?

This experience was a hard lesson in responsibility and attention to detail. It taught me the importance of double-checking critical information and maintaining a well-organized schedule. I learned to take proactive steps in managing my time and commitments, ensuring that such an oversight would not happen again.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab13" template="BlogArticle">

What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?

To further enhance my skills, I enrolled in an online course offered by Coursera, focusing on data analytics. This course provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how to use data analytics tools effectively, enabling me to draw meaningful insights from complex datasets.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer 2","title":"Sample Answer 2"}]" code="tab14" template="BlogArticle">

Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?

\u201cGiven my deep interest in international law, I see myself following that path in the future. In 10 years, I would like to be working overseas, becoming involved in cases that have to do with human rights and international relations. Diplomacy is a field that I have always found extremely attractive and that I think will suit me well, given my strong communication skills and engaging personality. One of my greatest ambitions is to be able to defend my country's interests while helping maintain peace with the rest of the world. This school offers an exchange program that I found extremely attractive when I first started working on my application. Completing a semester abroad to study law here would help me get a realistic sense of what a career in international law looks like. I strongly believe [school name] can help me achieve my academic and professional goals in the long term.\u201d ","label":"Sample Answer","title":"Sample Answer"}]" code="tab15" template="BlogArticle">

Test yourself with these personal law school interview questions:
What’s the one thing about yourself that you’re the proudest of?
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
What academic accomplishments are you the proudest of?
Do you consider yourself to be a leader or a follower?
Describe a leader you’ve worked with and what you learned from them.
How would you describe your experience at your undergraduate university?
What were your favorite and least favorite undergraduate courses?
What was the toughest class you’ve taken and why?
What kind of student do you consider yourself to be?
Tell me about a time you overcame an obstacle.
Tell me about a time you showcased leadership.
Tell me about a time you solved a conflict with a classmate or colleague.
Tell me about a time you successfully worked as part of a team.
Are you a team player or do you prefer to work on your own?
Tell me about a time you faced a moral dilemma and how you solved it.
What was the biggest obstacle you were able to overcome in your life?
How do you handle stress?
What legal skill do you struggle with?
Tell me about a time you made a mistake, and how you dealt with it.
Tell me about a time when you worked as part of a team with diverse perspectives and/or backgrounds.
Tell me about an ethical work situation you had to deal with. How did it turn out?
Describe a situation in which a detail you thought to be unimportant turned out to be very important.
How would you go about building a trusting relationship with a client?
What would make you a good trial advocate?
Imagine you represent a client has stolen several pieces of equipment. She has two people who will supply her with an alibi, but you think they might be lying. Do you put these people on the stand?
What have you seen in court that you want to emulate? Avoid doing?
What did you do the last time things didn’t go according to plan?
Discuss a situation where you had to make an unpopular decision
Tell me about a time when you agreed to work on too many projects and had to prioritize.
Do you think that your grades are a good indication of overall abilities?
How have your prior positions helped prepare you for a legal career?
In what kind of work environment are you most comfortable?
What two or three accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
When has a failure turned into a success?
Name a time that you were not happy with your performance. What did you do to address it?
What is one time someone told you that you had good judgment?
How do you work under pressure?
How do you feel about research? Writing? Client contact?
What is a passion of yours? Tell us about it.
Explain to us a little more about your multiple attempts on the LSAT.
Which student organization(s) would you be interested in?
Why did you choose [undergraduate university]?

While they might seem completely unrelated to the main point of the interview, quirky questions do come up and are famously hard to answer. In many ways, because there are no right answers to these questions. But that’s the point – these questions are meant to make you think on your feet and demonstrate your decision-making abilities and your judgment.

Here’s how to approach these: if a question totally stumps you, tell the interviewer you have to take a moment to think – this is good decision-making! The purpose of these questions is to see how you adapt, how you interact with people and how self-aware you are.

What Book Are You Currently Reading?

“I haven't had much time for books, unfortunately, but the last book I read was To Kill a Mockingbird. I had read it in high school, like most people, but I believe good books should be read more than once, as they teach you different lessons at each stage of your life. As a matter of fact, I was right. This novel talks about an attorney's attempt to prove the innocence of a black man who has been wrongly accused of raping a white woman in 1930s Alabama, seen from the innocent eyes of his 6-year-old daughter. The first time I read it, I would focus on the children and their conflicts, while the second time I read it I automatically stepped on the shoes of their father, Atticus, the lawyer defending the innocently accused black man. I was able to understand why he decided to defend him, even when his chances of success were incredibly low. Atticus' actions throughout the book taught me a lot about ethics and made me realize the kind of lawyer I want to become. I'd like to give it a third read once I start my professional career in a law firm, as I believe I'll have a totally different perspective.”

How Would You Describe Yourself Using Three Words?

“I think, I would say I’m idealistic; curious; and resilient. Idealistic because I’m a member of the Green Party of Canada and volunteer for Green Party candidates in provincial and federal elections even though they rarely get elected, just because I felt strongly about the party’s values. Curious because I’ve learned basic Japanese in a year because I’ve always loved Japanese culture; and resilient because I donated a kidney to my brother, who was suffering from kidney disease.”

These are tough to prepare for! But here’s some more examples of quirky law school interview questions you can practice with:

Who’s your hero/heroine?
Who is your favorite author?
Tell me about a book that has influenced the way you think.
If you could have dinner with a person, living or dead, who would it be?
What journals do you read on a regular basis?
What is your idea of success?
What can you do to become successful, following your own criteria?
Is there any crime that you would have trouble defending?
If you had a year off, what would you do with this time?
Name a bias that you overcame.
If you could go back to any time in your life and tell yourself something, what would it be?

This type of law school interview questions may seem to invite an opinion and it does in some way, but your “disagreement” with a court case should be formed on the basis of jurisprudence - the theoretical side of the law - not necessarily whether the decision was “right” or “wrong” based on your own politics. Take this question as a mini-essay and support your argument. Here’s a quick structure you can use to approach any policy law school interview question:

Opening sentence . In your opening sentence, shortly summarize the policy or the decision to demonstrate your awareness.
1 or 2 points about the decision or the law . List a couple of advantages and disadvantages of the policy. Not only will this further demonstrate your awareness of the problem, but it will also demonstrate your ability to stay objective, informed, and open-minded.
Last sentence . The last part of your answer should include your personal opinion about the policy and the reasons behind your stance. If you disagree with the policy, give a short sentence with an alternative solution to the problem.

Tell Me About a Recent Supreme Court Case that You Disagreed With and Why.

"One recent Supreme Court decision that I’ve followed with interest was the recent ruling that struck down affirmative action and race-based admissions in US colleges. Affirmative action, in various forms, has been a part of college admissions for decades, shaped by previous legal judgments. This decision could be seen as inconsistent with past interpretations of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. But I am mostly concerned about the broader implications of this ruling on other aspects of educational policy and equal opportunity. This decision not only impacts affirmative action but also sets a precedent that could affect future rulings on educational policies and equality in the educational sphere."

Here's more policy law school interview questions for you to practice with:

Are there any social issues or legal topics that concern you at the moment?
What is one social issue or law you’d change?
If you were a court, how would you rule on the following issue…?

A law school admissions process is challenging, and you need to learn things like how to study for the LSAT, how to write an impressive personal statement, and how to answer interview questions. Your law school interview won't be impossible to tackle if you prepare yourself with a good list of law school interview questions and answers. Go over it as many times as you need and rehearse with a friend. Additionally, make sure to research the school and stay up to date on current social issues that might come up during the interview. If you dedicate enough time to come up with thoughtful answers to the most challenging and personal questions beforehand, you will leave the interview feeling accomplished and satisfied with your performance.

Some of the most common law school interview questions are basic questions like “where do you see yourself in 5 years?” and “why do you want to go to law school?”. Other common questions might center on your experiences with law, what kind of law you want to practice, why you’ve chosen a particular law school or you may be asked your opinion on a legal issue.

A Kira talent interview is an online interviewing tool some law schools use to remotely interview law school applicants.

Some of the hardest law school interview questions might be the “open-ended” questions like “tell me about yourself” or “what is your greatest weakness”. These types of questions often stump students because they are not sure how to begin or what details they should include. A good way to tackle these is to have an answer to these common questions prepared ahead of time or a list of talking points to refer to.

The key to acing your law school interview is good practice. Try practicing with a mock law school interview. You can ask a law school advisor , trusted friend or mentor to act as your mock interviewer so you can practice your responses and get feedback on your performance. You can also check out common questions law schools ask potential students.

Using a mock interview can help you prepare strong answers ahead of time, as well as know how to highlight your strengths, skills and knowledge of the legal profession. You can help yourself stand out by providing insightful, self-reflective answers to personal questions, demonstrate a thorough understanding of legal topics for questions about the law, and highlighting your top skills and experiences in your answers.

In interviews, it’s best to relax and be yourself, but you should practice being calm and confident in your responses. A mock interview is a good way to practice your comportment in the interview room, eliminate any nerves you might have and know your answers to common questions. Mock interviews also allow you to practice our strategy for different types of questions, i.e. scenario, policy and personal. Having a structured approach to each type of question helps you keep your answer concise and avoid any rambling.

Not all law schools require interviews, or may not choose to interview all applicants. So it is possible to get into law school without attending an interview. However, if you are invited to interview, take this as a great opportunity to practice your interviewing skills and make a positive impression on the admissions committee!

Yes. Law schools typically use interviews as a way to learn more about potential students or to evaluate applicants in-person. If a law school invites you to an interview, it’s a good indicator that you are being seriously considered for admissions and a law school admissions committee wants to see how you perform in the interview.

Sources: Yale Law School, Harvard Law School, Columbia Law School, Georgetown Law School, Northwestern Law School, Cornell Law School, Texas A&M School of Law, University of Pennsylvania Law School, Duke Law School, University of Virginia Law School

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Case studies during job interviews: how to protect your work

Jul 29, 2021

You’ve landed an interview for your dream job, but making sure you get hired is a whole other story. The recruitment process can be long and demanding with five or more steps. One of them may include asking you to do a case study interview. What are case studies exactly? How common are they? Can it be unlawful for a recruiter to ask for one? Here we look into this particular step during the hiring process and how you can protect your work.

What are case studies?

Are you new to the concept of case studies during the hiring process? The first thing to note is that a case study interview puts you in the driver’s seat. You’re given a real business problem or scenario to work through and solve. You will probably be required to do one if you’re applying for a role in management consulting, although they are also used in other industries. Most case study interviews are conducted face-to-face with a recruiter or a panel in a session that usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes.

Case study interviews are different from standard interviews, as they involve working through a business problem to reach a logical conclusion. The idea is to put you in a situation that mimics the work you will be doing and give the interviewer an insight into how you might perform on the job. The case may be given to you verbally or in writing. Then you’ll be asked to describe the assumptions, strategies, and steps you’re using to solve the case out loud or in writing within a specific period.

The type of problem will vary depending on the employer and the role. There are a few common types of cases you may be faced with: real or theoretical business scenarios; those that test your numeracy skills and ask you to estimate figures; those that expect you to interpret graphs or charts; those that test your skill at developing corporate and business strategies; those examining profitability or growth opportunities.

If the scope of the issue worries you, remember that having in-depth knowledge of the industry on which the question is based is not necessary . Nonetheless, it is useful to have an understanding of basic business principles and current affairs in the corporate sector. Doing some research on the company before the interview to find out more about its work and clients is helpful.

Working through a case study allows you to show your skills and your ability to work through a problem in real-time. The recruiter may also be assessing personal qualities such as your capacity to stay calm in a stressful situation.

Are case studies legal?

Case studies have become common in some hiring areas, but does this mean they are always entirely legal? According to Suzanne Staunton, an employment barrister and partner at JMW Solicitors LLP, asking an interviewee to do a case study is unlawful only when the company looks to flout the law. “By way of example, if the request is in some way harassing or discriminatory in nature, it will of course be unlawful,” she said. “If the case study request is not genuine and it is an attempt on the company’s behalf to get free work, then potentially it could amount to negligent or fraudulent misrepresentation.” If this happens, can the interviewee do something about it? Yes, but it can be “expensive to pursue ” and it is “ usually hard to prove,” said Staunton, adding that costs may be recoverable if the interviewee wins.

Should you be paid to do a case study?

An employee must be paid by an employer. But what happens when the person performing the work is not employed by the company? Is it legal for a recruiter to ask for a case study, which is a type of labor, without paying the interviewee? According to Staunton, as long as it remains a genuine recruitment exercise with no intention on the firm’s part to use the work, “then there is no limit to what a company could ask you to do and it is a matter for the interviewee what they will accept,” she said. In other words, as long as you agree to perform the work during a hiring process, it is legal for the recruiter not to pay you.

If you find yourself in a situation where you have done a case study but didn’t even get a response from the recruiter, you are allowed to ask the company “to irretrievably delete the case study,” said Philip Partington, an intellectual property partner at JMW Solicitors LLP. However, “taking this course of action is likely to result in the interviewee not being considered for future roles,” he added.

Your work was stolen, now what?

If you realize that the recruiter has used the work you did for the case study afterward, you may be tempted to consider taking legal action. So what are your options? Partington says the interviewee owns the copyright of the item or piece of work. Hence, “if the interviewer uses the item or piece of work, then it infringes their intellectual property rights,” he said. If the company didn’t hire you, Partington says you can bring a claim against it for that item or piece of work. But “this could be very expensive for the interviewee and may not result in much by way of damages,” he said.

Moreover, if a recruiter ends up using the work you’ve done for a case study, “it could potentially amount to theft,” said Amy Shaffron, a criminal partner at JMW Solicitors LLP. “But as it is very hard to quantify the loss, it is unlikely the Crown Prosecution Service would seek to prosecute it.”

While case studies may be demanding and may sometimes be on the verge of legality, the means you have to protect your work and your rights are limited. At the same time, you have the right to refuse if you are asked to do one although doing so may prevent you from getting the job or being considered for future roles within the company.

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Blog Business How to Present a Case Study like a Pro (With Examples)

How to Present a Case Study like a Pro (With Examples)

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Sep 07, 2023

Okay, let’s get real: case studies can be kinda snooze-worthy. But guess what? They don’t have to be!

In this article, I will cover every element that transforms a mere report into a compelling case study, from selecting the right metrics to using persuasive narrative techniques.

And if you’re feeling a little lost, don’t worry! There are cool tools like Venngage’s Case Study Creator to help you whip up something awesome, even if you’re short on time. Plus, the pre-designed case study templates are like instant polish because let’s be honest, everyone loves a shortcut.

Click to jump ahead:

What is a case study presentation?

What is the purpose of presenting a case study, how to structure a case study presentation, how long should a case study presentation be, 5 case study presentation examples with templates, 6 tips for delivering an effective case study presentation, 5 common mistakes to avoid in a case study presentation, how to present a case study faqs.

A case study presentation involves a comprehensive examination of a specific subject, which could range from an individual, group, location, event, organization or phenomenon.

They’re like puzzles you get to solve with the audience, all while making you think outside the box.

Unlike a basic report or whitepaper, the purpose of a case study presentation is to stimulate critical thinking among the viewers.

The primary objective of a case study is to provide an extensive and profound comprehension of the chosen topic. You don’t just throw numbers at your audience. You use examples and real-life cases to make you think and see things from different angles.

The primary purpose of presenting a case study is to offer a comprehensive, evidence-based argument that informs, persuades and engages your audience.

Here’s the juicy part: presenting that case study can be your secret weapon. Whether you’re pitching a groundbreaking idea to a room full of suits or trying to impress your professor with your A-game, a well-crafted case study can be the magic dust that sprinkles brilliance over your words.

Think of it like digging into a puzzle you can’t quite crack . A case study lets you explore every piece, turn it over and see how it fits together. This close-up look helps you understand the whole picture, not just a blurry snapshot.

It’s also your chance to showcase how you analyze things, step by step, until you reach a conclusion. It’s all about being open and honest about how you got there.

Besides, presenting a case study gives you an opportunity to connect data and real-world scenarios in a compelling narrative. It helps to make your argument more relatable and accessible, increasing its impact on your audience.

One of the contexts where case studies can be very helpful is during the job interview. In some job interviews, you as candidates may be asked to present a case study as part of the selection process.

Having a case study presentation prepared allows the candidate to demonstrate their ability to understand complex issues, formulate strategies and communicate their ideas effectively.

The way you present a case study can make all the difference in how it’s received. A well-structured presentation not only holds the attention of your audience but also ensures that your key points are communicated clearly and effectively.

In this section, let’s go through the key steps that’ll help you structure your case study presentation for maximum impact.

Let’s get into it.

Open with an introductory overview

Start by introducing the subject of your case study and its relevance. Explain why this case study is important and who would benefit from the insights gained. This is your opportunity to grab your audience’s attention.

Explain the problem in question

Dive into the problem or challenge that the case study focuses on. Provide enough background information for the audience to understand the issue. If possible, quantify the problem using data or metrics to show the magnitude or severity.

Detail the solutions to solve the problem

After outlining the problem, describe the steps taken to find a solution. This could include the methodology, any experiments or tests performed and the options that were considered. Make sure to elaborate on why the final solution was chosen over the others.

Key stakeholders Involved

Talk about the individuals, groups or organizations that were directly impacted by or involved in the problem and its solution.

Stakeholders may experience a range of outcomes—some may benefit, while others could face setbacks.

For example, in a business transformation case study, employees could face job relocations or changes in work culture, while shareholders might be looking at potential gains or losses.

Discuss the key results & outcomes

Discuss the results of implementing the solution. Use data and metrics to back up your statements. Did the solution meet its objectives? What impact did it have on the stakeholders? Be honest about any setbacks or areas for improvement as well.

Include visuals to support your analysis

Visual aids can be incredibly effective in helping your audience grasp complex issues. Utilize charts, graphs, images or video clips to supplement your points. Make sure to explain each visual and how it contributes to your overall argument.

Pie charts illustrate the proportion of different components within a whole, useful for visualizing market share, budget allocation or user demographics.

This is particularly useful especially if you’re displaying survey results in your case study presentation.

Stacked charts on the other hand are perfect for visualizing composition and trends. This is great for analyzing things like customer demographics, product breakdowns or budget allocation in your case study.

Consider this example of a stacked bar chart template. It provides a straightforward summary of the top-selling cake flavors across various locations, offering a quick and comprehensive view of the data.

Not the chart you’re looking for? Browse Venngage’s gallery of chart templates to find the perfect one that’ll captivate your audience and level up your data storytelling.

Recommendations and next steps

Wrap up by providing recommendations based on the case study findings. Outline the next steps that stakeholders should take to either expand on the success of the project or address any remaining challenges.

Acknowledgments and references

Thank the people who contributed to the case study and helped in the problem-solving process. Cite any external resources, reports or data sets that contributed to your analysis.

Feedback & Q&A session

Open the floor for questions and feedback from your audience. This allows for further discussion and can provide additional insights that may not have been considered previously.

Closing remarks

Conclude the presentation by summarizing the key points and emphasizing the takeaways. Thank your audience for their time and participation and express your willingness to engage in further discussions or collaborations on the subject.

Well, the length of a case study presentation can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the needs of your audience. However, a typical business or academic presentation often lasts between 15 to 30 minutes.

This time frame usually allows for a thorough explanation of the case while maintaining audience engagement. However, always consider leaving a few minutes at the end for a Q&A session to address any questions or clarify points made during the presentation.

When it comes to presenting a compelling case study, having a well-structured template can be a game-changer.

It helps you organize your thoughts, data and findings in a coherent and visually pleasing manner.

Not all case studies are created equal and different scenarios require distinct approaches for maximum impact.

To save you time and effort, I have curated a list of 5 versatile case study presentation templates, each designed for specific needs and audiences.

Here are some best case study presentation examples that showcase effective strategies for engaging your audience and conveying complex information clearly.

1 . Lab report case study template

Ever feel like your research gets lost in a world of endless numbers and jargon? Lab case studies are your way out!

Think of it as building a bridge between your cool experiment and everyone else. It’s more than just reporting results – it’s explaining the “why” and “how” in a way that grabs attention and makes sense.

This lap report template acts as a blueprint for your report, guiding you through each essential section (introduction, methods, results, etc.) in a logical order.

College Lab Report Template - Introduction

Want to present your research like a pro? Browse our research presentation template gallery for creative inspiration!

2. Product case study template

It’s time you ditch those boring slideshows and bullet points because I’ve got a better way to win over clients: product case study templates.

Instead of just listing features and benefits, you get to create a clear and concise story that shows potential clients exactly what your product can do for them. It’s like painting a picture they can easily visualize, helping them understand the value your product brings to the table.

Grab the template below, fill in the details, and watch as your product’s impact comes to life!

3. Content marketing case study template

In digital marketing, showcasing your accomplishments is as vital as achieving them.

A well-crafted case study not only acts as a testament to your successes but can also serve as an instructional tool for others.

With this coral content marketing case study template—a perfect blend of vibrant design and structured documentation, you can narrate your marketing triumphs effectively.

4. Case study psychology template

Understanding how people tick is one of psychology’s biggest quests and case studies are like magnifying glasses for the mind. They offer in-depth looks at real-life behaviors, emotions and thought processes, revealing fascinating insights into what makes us human.

Writing a top-notch case study, though, can be a challenge. It requires careful organization, clear presentation and meticulous attention to detail. That’s where a good case study psychology template comes in handy.

Think of it as a helpful guide, taking care of formatting and structure while you focus on the juicy content. No more wrestling with layouts or margins – just pour your research magic into crafting a compelling narrative.

5. Lead generation case study template

Lead generation can be a real head-scratcher. But here’s a little help: a lead generation case study.

Think of it like a friendly handshake and a confident resume all rolled into one. It’s your chance to showcase your expertise, share real-world successes and offer valuable insights. Potential clients get to see your track record, understand your approach and decide if you’re the right fit.

No need to start from scratch, though. This lead generation case study template guides you step-by-step through crafting a clear, compelling narrative that highlights your wins and offers actionable tips for others. Fill in the gaps with your specific data and strategies, and voilà! You’ve got a powerful tool to attract new customers.

Modern Lead Generation Business Case Study Presentation Template

Related: 15+ Professional Case Study Examples [Design Tips + Templates]

So, you’ve spent hours crafting the perfect case study and are now tasked with presenting it. Crafting the case study is only half the battle; delivering it effectively is equally important.

Whether you’re facing a room of executives, academics or potential clients, how you present your findings can make a significant difference in how your work is received.

Forget boring reports and snooze-inducing presentations! Let’s make your case study sing. Here are some key pointers to turn information into an engaging and persuasive performance:

Know your audience : Tailor your presentation to the knowledge level and interests of your audience. Remember to use language and examples that resonate with them.
Rehearse : Rehearsing your case study presentation is the key to a smooth delivery and for ensuring that you stay within the allotted time. Practice helps you fine-tune your pacing, hone your speaking skills with good word pronunciations and become comfortable with the material, leading to a more confident, conversational and effective presentation.
Start strong : Open with a compelling introduction that grabs your audience’s attention. You might want to use an interesting statistic, a provocative question or a brief story that sets the stage for your case study.
Be clear and concise : Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. Get to the point quickly and stay focused on your objectives.
Use visual aids : Incorporate slides with graphics, charts or videos to supplement your verbal presentation. Make sure they are easy to read and understand.
Tell a story : Use storytelling techniques to make the case study more engaging. A well-told narrative can help you make complex data more relatable and easier to digest.

Ditching the dry reports and slide decks? Venngage’s case study templates let you wow customers with your solutions and gain insights to improve your business plan. Pre-built templates, visual magic and customer captivation – all just a click away. Go tell your story and watch them say “wow!”

Nailed your case study, but want to make your presentation even stronger? Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your audience gets the most out of it:

Overloading with information

A case study is not an encyclopedia. Overloading your presentation with excessive data, text or jargon can make it cumbersome and difficult for the audience to digest the key points. Stick to what’s essential and impactful. Need help making your data clear and impactful? Our data presentation templates can help! Find clear and engaging visuals to showcase your findings.

Lack of structure

Jumping haphazardly between points or topics can confuse your audience. A well-structured presentation, with a logical flow from introduction to conclusion, is crucial for effective communication.

Ignoring the audience

Different audiences have different needs and levels of understanding. Failing to adapt your presentation to your audience can result in a disconnect and a less impactful presentation.

Poor visual elements

While content is king, poor design or lack of visual elements can make your case study dull or hard to follow. Make sure you use high-quality images, graphs and other visual aids to support your narrative.

Not focusing on results

A case study aims to showcase a problem and its solution, but what most people care about are the results. Failing to highlight or adequately explain the outcomes can make your presentation fall flat.

How to start a case study presentation?

Starting a case study presentation effectively involves a few key steps:

Grab attention : Open with a hook—an intriguing statistic, a provocative question or a compelling visual—to engage your audience from the get-go.
Set the stage : Briefly introduce the subject, context and relevance of the case study to give your audience an idea of what to expect.
Outline objectives : Clearly state what the case study aims to achieve. Are you solving a problem, proving a point or showcasing a success?
Agenda : Give a quick outline of the key sections or topics you’ll cover to help the audience follow along.
Set expectations : Let your audience know what you want them to take away from the presentation, whether it’s knowledge, inspiration or a call to action.

How to present a case study on PowerPoint and on Google Slides?

Presenting a case study on PowerPoint and Google Slides involves a structured approach for clarity and impact using presentation slides :

Title slide : Start with a title slide that includes the name of the case study, your name and any relevant institutional affiliations.
Introduction : Follow with a slide that outlines the problem or situation your case study addresses. Include a hook to engage the audience.
Objectives : Clearly state the goals of the case study in a dedicated slide.
Findings : Use charts, graphs and bullet points to present your findings succinctly.
Analysis : Discuss what the findings mean, drawing on supporting data or secondary research as necessary.
Conclusion : Summarize key takeaways and results.
Q&A : End with a slide inviting questions from the audience.

What’s the role of analysis in a case study presentation?

The role of analysis in a case study presentation is to interpret the data and findings, providing context and meaning to them.

It helps your audience understand the implications of the case study, connects the dots between the problem and the solution and may offer recommendations for future action.

Is it important to include real data and results in the presentation?

Yes, including real data and results in a case study presentation is crucial to show experience, credibility and impact. Authentic data lends weight to your findings and conclusions, enabling the audience to trust your analysis and take your recommendations more seriously

How do I conclude a case study presentation effectively?

To conclude a case study presentation effectively, summarize the key findings, insights and recommendations in a clear and concise manner.

End with a strong call-to-action or a thought-provoking question to leave a lasting impression on your audience.

What’s the best way to showcase data in a case study presentation ?

The best way to showcase data in a case study presentation is through visual aids like charts, graphs and infographics which make complex information easily digestible, engaging and creative.

Don’t just report results, visualize them! This template for example lets you transform your social media case study into a captivating infographic that sparks conversation.

Choose the type of visual that best represents the data you’re showing; for example, use bar charts for comparisons or pie charts for parts of a whole.

Ensure that the visuals are high-quality and clearly labeled, so the audience can quickly grasp the key points.

Keep the design consistent and simple, avoiding clutter or overly complex visuals that could distract from the message.

Choose a template that perfectly suits your case study where you can utilize different visual aids for maximum impact.

Need more inspiration on how to turn numbers into impact with the help of infographics? Our ready-to-use infographic templates take the guesswork out of creating visual impact for your case studies with just a few clicks.

Related: 10+ Case Study Infographic Templates That Convert

Congrats on mastering the art of compelling case study presentations! This guide has equipped you with all the essentials, from structure and nuances to avoiding common pitfalls. You’re ready to impress any audience, whether in the boardroom, the classroom or beyond.

And remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Venngage’s Case Study Creator is your trusty companion, ready to elevate your presentations from ordinary to extraordinary. So, let your confidence shine, leverage your newly acquired skills and prepare to deliver presentations that truly resonate.

Go forth and make a lasting impact!

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AI on Trial: Legal Models Hallucinate in 1 out of 6 (or More) Benchmarking Queries

A new study reveals the need for benchmarking and public evaluations of AI tools in law.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are rapidly transforming the practice of law. Nearly three quarters of lawyers plan on using generative AI for their work, from sifting through mountains of case law to drafting contracts to reviewing documents to writing legal memoranda. But are these tools reliable enough for real-world use?

Large language models have a documented tendency to “hallucinate,” or make up false information. In one highly-publicized case, a New York lawyer faced sanctions for citing ChatGPT-invented fictional cases in a legal brief; many similar cases have since been reported. And our previous study of general-purpose chatbots found that they hallucinated between 58% and 82% of the time on legal queries, highlighting the risks of incorporating AI into legal practice. In his 2023 annual report on the judiciary , Chief Justice Roberts took note and warned lawyers of hallucinations.

Across all areas of industry, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) is seen and promoted as the solution for reducing hallucinations in domain-specific contexts. Relying on RAG, leading legal research services have released AI-powered legal research products that they claim “avoid” hallucinations and guarantee “hallucination-free” legal citations. RAG systems promise to deliver more accurate and trustworthy legal information by integrating a language model with a database of legal documents. Yet providers have not provided hard evidence for such claims or even precisely defined “hallucination,” making it difficult to assess their real-world reliability.

AI-Driven Legal Research Tools Still Hallucinate

In a new preprint study by Stanford RegLab and HAI researchers, we put the claims of two providers, LexisNexis (creator of Lexis+ AI) and Thomson Reuters (creator of Westlaw AI-Assisted Research and Ask Practical Law AI)), to the test. We show that their tools do reduce errors compared to general-purpose AI models like GPT-4. That is a substantial improvement and we document instances where these tools provide sound and detailed legal research. But even these bespoke legal AI tools still hallucinate an alarming amount of the time: the Lexis+ AI and Ask Practical Law AI systems produced incorrect information more than 17% of the time, while Westlaw’s AI-Assisted Research hallucinated more than 34% of the time.

Read the full study, Hallucination-Free? Assessing the Reliability of Leading AI Legal Research Tools

To conduct our study, we manually constructed a pre-registered dataset of over 200 open-ended legal queries, which we designed to probe various aspects of these systems’ performance.

Broadly, we investigated (1) general research questions (questions about doctrine, case holdings, or the bar exam); (2) jurisdiction or time-specific questions (questions about circuit splits and recent changes in the law); (3) false premise questions (questions that mimic a user having a mistaken understanding of the law); and (4) factual recall questions (questions about simple, objective facts that require no legal interpretation). These questions are designed to reflect a wide range of query types and to constitute a challenging real-world dataset of exactly the kinds of queries where legal research may be needed the most.

comparison of hallucinated and incomplete responses

Figure 1: Comparison of hallucinated (red) and incomplete (yellow) answers across generative legal research tools.

These systems can hallucinate in one of two ways. First, a response from an AI tool might just be incorrect —it describes the law incorrectly or makes a factual error. Second, a response might be misgrounded —the AI tool describes the law correctly, but cites a source which does not in fact support its claims.

Given the critical importance of authoritative sources in legal research and writing, the second type of hallucination may be even more pernicious than the outright invention of legal cases. A citation might be “hallucination-free” in the narrowest sense that the citation exists , but that is not the only thing that matters. The core promise of legal AI is that it can streamline the time-consuming process of identifying relevant legal sources. If a tool provides sources that seem authoritative but are in reality irrelevant or contradictory, users could be misled. They may place undue trust in the tool's output, potentially leading to erroneous legal judgments and conclusions.

Figure 2: Top left: Example of a hallucinated response by Westlaw's AI-Assisted Research product. The system makes up a statement in the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure that does not exist (and Kontrick v. Ryan, 540 U.S. 443 (2004) held that a closely related bankruptcy deadline provision was not jurisdictional). Top right: Example of a hallucinated response by LexisNexis's Lexis+ AI. Casey and its undue burden standard were overruled by the Supreme Court in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, 597 U.S. 215 (2022); the correct answer is rational basis review. Bottom left: Example of a hallucinated response by Thomson Reuters's Ask Practical Law AI. The system fails to correct the user’s mistaken premise—in reality, Justice Ginsburg joined the Court's landmark decision legalizing same-sex marriage—and instead provides additional false information about the case. Bottom right: Example of a hallucinated response from GPT-4, which generates a statutory provision that has not been codified.

RAG Is Not a Panacea

a chart showing an overview of the retrieval-augmentation generation (RAG) process.

Figure 3: An overview of the retrieval-augmentation generation (RAG) process. Given a user query (left), the typical process consists of two steps: (1) retrieval (middle), where the query is embedded with natural language processing and a retrieval system takes embeddings and retrieves the relevant documents (e.g., Supreme Court cases); and (2) generation (right), where the retrieved texts are fed to the language model to generate the response to the user query. Any of the subsidiary steps may introduce error and hallucinations into the generated response. (Icons are courtesy of FlatIcon.)

Under the hood, these new legal AI tools use retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) to produce their results, a method that many tout as a potential solution to the hallucination problem. In theory, RAG allows a system to first retrieve the relevant source material and then use it to generate the correct response. In practice, however, we show that even RAG systems are not hallucination-free.

We identify several challenges that are particularly unique to RAG-based legal AI systems, causing hallucinations.

First, legal retrieval is hard. As any lawyer knows, finding the appropriate (or best) authority can be no easy task. Unlike other domains, the law is not entirely composed of verifiable facts —instead, law is built up over time by judges writing opinions . This makes identifying the set of documents that definitively answer a query difficult, and sometimes hallucinations occur for the simple reason that the system’s retrieval mechanism fails.

Second, even when retrieval occurs, the document that is retrieved can be an inapplicable authority. In the American legal system, rules and precedents differ across jurisdictions and time periods; documents that might be relevant on their face due to semantic similarity to a query may actually be inapposite for idiosyncratic reasons that are unique to the law. Thus, we also observe hallucinations occurring when these RAG systems fail to identify the truly binding authority. This is particularly problematic as areas where the law is in flux is precisely where legal research matters the most. One system, for instance, incorrectly recited the “undue burden” standard for abortion restrictions as good law, which was overturned in Dobbs (see Figure 2).

Third, sycophancy—the tendency of AI to agree with the user's incorrect assumptions—also poses unique risks in legal settings. One system, for instance, naively agreed with the question’s premise that Justice Ginsburg dissented in Obergefell , the case establishing a right to same-sex marriage, and answered that she did so based on her views on international copyright. (Justice Ginsburg did not dissent in Obergefell and, no, the case had nothing to do with copyright.) Notwithstanding that answer, here there are optimistic results. Our tests showed that both systems generally navigated queries based on false premises effectively. But when these systems do agree with erroneous user assertions, the implications can be severe—particularly for those hoping to use these tools to increase access to justice among pro se and under-resourced litigants.

Responsible Integration of AI Into Law Requires Transparency

Ultimately, our results highlight the need for rigorous and transparent benchmarking of legal AI tools. Unlike other domains, the use of AI in law remains alarmingly opaque: the tools we study provide no systematic access, publish few details about their models, and report no evaluation results at all.

This opacity makes it exceedingly challenging for lawyers to procure and acquire AI products. The large law firm Paul Weiss spent nearly a year and a half testing a product, and did not develop “hard metrics” because checking the AI system was so involved that it “makes any efficiency gains difficult to measure.” The absence of rigorous evaluation metrics makes responsible adoption difficult, especially for practitioners that are less resourced than Paul Weiss.

The lack of transparency also threatens lawyers’ ability to comply with ethical and professional responsibility requirements. The bar associations of California , New York , and Florida have all recently released guidance on lawyers’ duty of supervision over work products created with AI tools. And as of May 2024, more than 25 federal judges have issued standing orders instructing attorneys to disclose or monitor the use of AI in their courtrooms.

Without access to evaluations of the specific tools and transparency around their design, lawyers may find it impossible to comply with these responsibilities. Alternatively, given the high rate of hallucinations, lawyers may find themselves having to verify each and every proposition and citation provided by these tools, undercutting the stated efficiency gains that legal AI tools are supposed to provide.

Our study is meant in no way to single out LexisNexis and Thomson Reuters. Their products are far from the only legal AI tools that stand in need of transparency—a slew of startups offer similar products and have made similar claims , but they are available on even more restricted bases, making it even more difficult to assess how they function.

Based on what we know, legal hallucinations have not been solved.The legal profession should turn to public benchmarking and rigorous evaluations of AI tools.

This story was updated on Thursday, May 30, 2024, to include analysis of a third AI tool, Westlaw’s AI-Assisted Research.

The authors of this study chose to evaluate “Ask Practical Law AI” because, despite several requests, they were not given access to Thomson Reuters’ other products at the time of the study. The authors look forward to evaluating more tools, but underscore that it should not be incumbent on academic researchers alone to provide transparency and empirical evidence on the reliability of marketed products.

Paper authors: Varun Magesh is a research fellow at Stanford RegLab. Faiz Surani is a research fellow at Stanford RegLab. Matthew Dahl is a joint JD/PhD student in political science at Yale University and graduate student affiliate of Stanford RegLab. Mirac Suzgun is a joint JD/PhD student in computer science at Stanford University and a graduate student fellow at Stanford RegLab. Christopher D. Manning is Thomas M. Siebel Professor of Machine Learning, Professor of Linguistics and Computer Science, and Senior Fellow at HAI. Daniel E. Ho is the William Benjamin Scott and Luna M. Scott Professor of Law, Professor of Political Science, Professor of Computer Science (by courtesy), Senior Fellow at HAI, Senior Fellow at SIEPR, and Director of the RegLab at Stanford University.

In-house lawyers: case studies

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In-house lawyers: case studies on x (opens in a new window)
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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

The case studies below, featuring the most innovative legal teams in the Asia-Pacific region highlight examples of their work in the following areas:

Operational transformation

New product and services

Sustainability and impact

Commercial and strategic advice, digital solutions, using generative artificial intelligence, people and skills.

All the case studies were researched, compiled and ranked by RSGI. “Winner” indicates that the organisation won an FT Innovative Lawyers Asia-Pacific award for 2024

Read the other FT Innovative Lawyers Asia-Pacific ‘Best practice case studies’, which showcase the standout innovations made for and by people working in the legal sector:

Practice of law Business of law

Winner: Telstra Originality: 9; Leadership: 8; Impact: 8; Total: 25 The legal team at the Australian telecoms company has built on previous improvements to the way it prioritises work from the rest of the business. It created a tool that measures capacity and provides the team with a system for discussing its scope to take on work — deciding how to prioritise tasks within the team, or justifying putting them out to external counsel. The resulting transparency on capacity and costs has enhanced relationships with the rest of the business.

HSBC O: 8; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 24 In 2023, the bank’s regional legal team built and deployed several tools, including a digital portal to receive legal requests from the business, a centralised system for approving marketing campaigns, and a chatbot to handle responses to routine queries. They are, so far, used by the digital legal team, the litigation department, and one of the banking teams.

Highly commended

Boston Consulting Group O: 8; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 23 As part of BCG’s strategy to increase artificial intelligence and digital consulting fees significantly by 2026, its legal department in the region is collaborating with counterparts across the firm in initiatives such as overhauling risk and contractual frameworks. Internally, it is adopting workload management software and trialling generative AI automation tools.

IAG O: 7; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 23 In 2023, the Australian insurance company’s legal team improved its operations by automating the generation of complex contracts and by extending its programme for managing external spending to its teams in New Zealand. The team also introduced a dashboard that displays quarterly and monthly reports on legal expenditures and how external law firms perform.

Zongteng Group O: 7; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 23 Lawyers at the Chinese logistics business built a database that collects details of global legislation, legal commentaries and cases, and names of recommended external counsel in countries where the business operates. The resource helps the small legal team, mainly based in China, to provide global legal advice.

WiseTech Global O: 6; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 21 To gain support from the business for several operational changes, lawyers recorded precisely how they spent their time — an unusual practice for in-house teams. The scrutiny helped identify where alterations, such as introducing a contract management system, would help improve efficiency. The improvements have saved the team hundreds of hours in answering routine queries.

BHP O: 6; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 20 In preparation for making use of generative AI, the mining group’s legal team has upgraded its systems to store documents in one place and to collect structured data. The team estimates that the move has already cut lawyers’ time spent on administrative tasks by a quarter.

Toll Group O: 6; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 20 The legal team at the global logistics business introduced an automation tool to speed up contract approval. Some 3,000 requests have been yielding valuable insights, such as how often negotiators deviate from standard contract terms.

Dentsu O: 6; L: 7; I: 6; Total: 19 The Japanese-led global advertising group’s Asia-Pacific legal team worked with the chief technology officer and other departments to improve and extend oversight of new products’ commercial viability and any potential data privacy questions, as well as other legal risks.

Equinix O: 6; L: 7; I: 6; Total: 19 The regional section of the data centre operator’s global legal team has centralised and streamlined several processes to enhance its contract management systems.

New products and services

Joint winners: Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing and HSBC Both legal teams: Originality: 8; Leadership: 8; Impact: 9; Total: 25 Launched in May 2023, the stock exchange operator’s Swap Connect programme allows offshore investors access to China’s $5tn interest rate swaps market, and is similar to existing programmes in Hong Kong that allow offshore investors to trade mainland bonds and stocks.

At Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX), the legal team helped structure the link-up, backed by the Shanghai Clearing House and the China Foreign Exchange Trade System, and worked to secure regulatory approval in the territory and mainland. At HSBC, lawyers drafted the contracts used by both the onshore and offshore investors.

DBS Bank O: 7; L: 9; I: 7; Total: 23 In 2023, the Singaporean bank set up a group to improve its handling of customer safety, led by a senior member of the legal team. It created an enhanced anti-malware tool for DBS to prevent users of its banking app logging in remotely if it detects signs of fraudulent activity. The bank says this change has stopped S$14mn ($10.3mn) being taken fraudulently from accounts. Another product enables digital deposits but only in-person withdrawals.

CIMB O: 6; L: 7; I: 8; Total: 21 Lawyers at the Malaysian banking group advised it on the rollout of online business loans and personal loans to domestic customers in the country.

Westpac O: 6; L; 7; I; 8; Total: 21 Lawyers at the Australian bank supported the product team in redesigning its mobile banking app, advising on new features, consumer rights and data protection.

Winner: Asian Development Bank Originality: 8; Leadership: 9; Impact: 8; Total: 25 The bank is working with UN agencies to send aid to people in Afghanistan without money passing through the Taliban. Usually, ADB works directly with governments to provide funding but, because the Taliban is not generally recognised as a government by the international community, aid had to be delivered through other channels.

The legal team successfully argued to stakeholders that, because Afghanistan does not exercise jurisdiction over UN agencies, those organisations are appropriate entities through which to deliver aid.

The lawyers negotiated with the UN agencies to ensure the arrangement met ADB’s strict transparency requirements, such as it being able to inspect any suppliers the UN contracted with as part of the collaboration.

DBS Bank O: 7; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 23 Since 2020, the legal and compliance team at the Singapore bank has run “hackathons”, alongside other organisations, to try to address wider social problems. The 2023 edition focused on mental resilience. Some 27 ideas were generated, two of which are being explored for further development.

MTR Corporation O: 6; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 21 The Hong Kong railway operator’s legal team helped it to execute its environmental, social and governance strategy. This included developing a new corporate structure and working to secure a patent for a product that uses cameras and AI to prevent damage to escalators from discarded objects.

Standard Chartered Bank O: 7; L: 7; I: 6; Total: 20 Sustainability experts in the Apac region’s legal team developed a process whereby the bank can assess and mitigate competition and antitrust risk when working on sustainable projects with counterparts in the banking industry.

Klook O: 7; L: 6; I: 7; Total: 20 After the travel company came under criticism over animal welfare standards at wildlife attractions, it took action to improve them. The legal team piloted a programme, working with accreditation business Asian Captive Elephant Standards, to help five elephant visitor attractions that sold tickets through Klook to meet the new standards. Some venues listed on Klook may still offer close-quarter wildlife experiences, but these are not promoted or sold through the Klook site itself.

Winner: SoftBank Originality: 8; Leadership: 9; Impact: 9; Total: 26 The legal team advised the Japanese investment group on last September’s initial public offering of its UK chip designer Arm in the US. To expedite the deal, lawyers also helped SoftBank acquire an additional 25 per cent of Arm from its Saudi-backed investment partner Vision Fund, the $100bn vehicle that is managed by SoftBank itself.

The lawyers negotiated with investors and dealt with scrutiny over this related-party transaction. The legal team also dealt with the US Securities and Exchange Commission in preparation for Arm’s IPO, which saw the Japanese company raise nearly $5bn while retaining 90 per cent of the business — making it the largest US listing in almost two years.

Asian Development Bank O: 7; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 23 The legal team at the Manila-based institution advised on the arrangement, structuring and syndication of a $692mn financing package signed last March to fund the construction of Monsoon Wind Power Project — the largest wind power plant in south-east Asia. Electricity generated from the plant under construction, the first wind farm in Laos, will be sold to neighbouring Vietnam. Features such as a $50mn concessional financing package, in case of delays, provide additional reassurance for commercial lenders.

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) O: 6; L: 9; I: 8; Total: 23 Lawyers at the stock exchange operator advised on narrowing the period between pricing and the start of share trading in an IPO from five days to two, via its new settlement platform Fast Interface for New Issuance, which was launched last year. The team worked with different stakeholders to digitise the previously paper-based system.

Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 The public research body’s lawyers worked with Australian legal design firm Inkling to improve the project agreements it uses when collaborating with a range of industry and academic partners. New contracts that clearly set out expectations and undertakings of projects are designed to improve the relationships between the organisation, including ANSTO scientists, and external researchers when working together on collaborations.

HSBC O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 Lawyers designed the documentation for HSBC’s role as sole settlement bank for a scheme to link Hong Kong’s Faster Payment System with PromptPay in Thailand. Nine banks and payment providers have so far signed up to use the scheme.

Recruit O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 Legal and data teams at Japan’s biggest recruitment agency, which has been expanding AI services for job searches and matching, have developed a new governance and review process to ensure compliance with AI and anti-discrimination laws globally.

Winner: Tencent Originality: 8; Leadership: 8; Impact: 9; Total: 25 The legal team at the Chinese technology company has set up a platform to simplify and speed up the review process when artificial intelligence features are added to Tencent apps. Product developers answer a series of questions about how they plan to use AI in an app and where the data will come from, which allows the legal team to say within a day if it should go ahead.

UBS O: 8; L: 9; I: 7; Total: 24 A tool devised by the Swiss bank’s lawyers in collaboration with the IT team assists in approval for data-transfer requests. It saves an estimated 1,000 hours of lawyer time annually and allows for faster approval of outsourcing projects at the bank.

Flex O: 7; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 22 To comply with the US-based manufacturing company’s data-security requirements, the China legal team bought a licence outright for a contract lifecycle management platform in order to be able to customise it. The tool works on English- and Chinese-language documents and has cut the review time required for procurement contracts from days to hours.

Fazz O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 The legal team at the Singaporean fintech is collaborating with police and government agencies in the city state to help prevent cyber crime. The lawyers have created a tool that streamlines responses to requests for information from the police.

AS Watson O: 6; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 20 The group legal team at the Hong Kong-based global health and beauty retailer has customised a legal operations management platform to act as a contract management system. The new system automates document drafting, streamlines the approvals process and cuts contract review times by up to 50 per cent.

Klook O: 6; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 20 The legal team at the Hong Kong-based travel company adopted a contract management system, for both sales and procurement, to handle a year-on-year doubling in contracts without adding more lawyers.

Winner: DBS Bank Originality: 9; Leadership: 8; Impact: 8; Total: 25 As a proof-of-concept exercise, the legal team used an application to retrieve news articles about customers that it wished to scrutinise over potential illicit or illegal activities. It then used generative artificial intelligence to summarise the items to highlight relevant coverage. The full version of this tool went live earlier this year and the team is piloting several other uses for generative AI in detecting money laundering and fraud.

Telstra O: 9; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 24 The legal team at the Australian telecoms business is testing a generative AI tool’s accuracy for translating laws, such as those regarding billing, into obligation statements for the business. The AI assesses Telstra’s processes for ensuring compliance and suggests measures to improve them.

Westpac O: 8; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 24 In collaboration with law firms, technology companies and other professional services businesses, the legal team at the Australian bank tested several generative AI tools in different scenarios. The team says it is already seeing productivity gains. One of the most promising tools links the bank’s underlying regulations and policies to its supplier contracts, which allows users to better understand the reasoning behind certain contract clauses.

Lazada O: 7; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 23 The legal team at the south-east Asian ecommerce business used generative AI to accelerate its contract review process and to identify common risks across different agreements. The team estimates that contract review is already 20 per cent to 30 per cent faster on its standard work.

GLP O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 The legal team at the Singapore-based international logistics company worked with colleagues, including the chief financial officer and the IT team, to store financial and legal documents centrally. This will give the business’s generative AI tool better access to data.

LG Chem O: 7; L: 8; I: 6; Total: 21 The legal team at the South Korean chemical company is using generative AI tools on Chinese and Korean-language documents, to help review the contents of contracts and redraft clauses more easily. It is currently used for simple contracts, such as non-disclosure agreements.

McKinsey & Company O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 Asia-Pacific lawyers at the consulting business are using its internal generative AI tool, Lilli, to help craft responses to external counsel, to critique their own legal arguments, and to assist in translation as the business uses more than 10 languages in the region.

Winner: Boston Consulting Group Originality: 8; Leadership: 9; Impact: 9; Total: 26 The US-based consultancy is aiming to double the proportion of fees it gets from AI and digital consulting to 40 per cent of its global revenues by 2026 (last year, revenues were $12.3bn). To help with this, BCG’s legal team in the region has hired a range of experts in technology, intellectual property, the metaverse, and AI ethics. To keep abreast of the latest developments in the field, the team has designated individuals to gather and update information across their practice areas to feed into different parts of the business.

Nanyang Technological University O: 7; L: 8; I: 9; Total: 24 At the start of 2024, the Singaporean university’s 22-person legal team established a “360” structure that expects all its lawyers to have a working knowledge of all areas that the institution may need advice on. There are still specialists, but most queries can now be answered by anyone in the department.

DBS Bank O: 8; L: 9; I: 6; Total: 23 The legal and compliance team at Singapore’s biggest bank has developed a strategy for coping with the anticipated disruption of generative AI in its business. It plans to move those doing work that becomes obsolete into new areas, while other jobs will be redesigned to create pooled resources that can better serve multiple business teams, assisted by AI tools. As many as 80 per cent of the legal team now use generative AI tools regularly.

HSBC O: 7; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 23 The bank’s legal team in the region centralised its training programmes on a single platform that allows lawyers to track their progress, view past materials, and create a customised development plan. Topics range from sustainability to digital and personal banking.

FedEx O: 7; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 22 Ten lawyers at the package delivery business used their training in more flexible working to introduce new practices to the rest of the region’s legal team.

Another 20 team members joined a workshop to help develop a chatbot that can assist in answering routine legal queries and accessing template documents.

Telstra O: 6; L: 8; I: 8; Total: 22 The legal team at the Australian telecoms business launched a training scheme for new graduate recruits and paralegals, where successful applicants rotate through several areas of Telstra’s in-house department and can spend six months to a year on secondment at an external law firm.

Uber O: 7; L: 8; I: 7; Total: 22 Members of the ride-hailing app’s regional legal team are now obliged to work as taxi drivers or food delivery riders one day per quarter, and share feedback with operations and product teams on how the business can be improved.

Airbnb O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 The holiday rental website set up a training scheme to prepare lawyers with skills required for senior roles. It comprises a dozen training sessions on key areas of legal expertise. Sessions include role-playing a presentation to a board of directors.

Macquarie O: 7; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 21 Lawyers at the Australia-based financial services group created an intranet for the business. It provides regularly updated resources about various areas of legal advice and identifies the best person to contact for each topic.

MSD (Merck) O: 7; L: 8; I: 6; Total: 21 The multinational pharmaceutical company’s legal team in China has launched a diversity and inclusion programme for five law firms it works with. The programme pairs in-house counsel and private practice lawyers at different seniority levels to discuss ideas and challenges in the field.

Jera O: 6; L: 7; I: 7; Total: 20 The legal team at the Japanese power company has adopted a new system for the intake and allocation of work. It uses the resulting data to identify skills gaps and shape training and hiring.

McCain Foods O: 6; L: 8; I: 6; Total: 19 The Asia-Pacific legal team at the global frozen foods company rebranded internally, with the aim of making its communications, such as legal notifications, more immediately noticeable to the rest of the business.

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What to watch for in Trump trial’s closing arguments, from a law school professor who teaches and studies them

A fter more than four weeks of often sordid testimony , accusations of lying and even a warning from Judge Juan M. Merchan to a witness to stop giving him the side-eye , lawyers in the hush-money case involving former President Donald Trump began to make their closing arguments on Tuesday May 28, 2024.

In a jury trial, opening statements are meant to provide jurors a narrative framework to organize all the bits and pieces of evidence and testimony.

Closing arguments are not meant to simply regurgitate the testimonies of all 22 witnesses or review the roughly 200 exhibits. For both prosecutors and defense attorneys, the closing arguments serve to tell the jury why the evidence is believable or not, why and how the facts are linked or not and, most importantly, why their decision to either acquit or convict is moral and just.

Keep it simple

As a I teach law school students and practitioners , that moral message in closing arguments should link back to themes already woven into the trial.

In this criminal case, one of four filed against Trump , Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg charged the former president with 34 counts of falsifying business records to hide a $130,000 payment to porn actress Stormy Daniels as part of an effort to influence voters’ knowledge about him before the 2016 presidential election.

Trump entered a plea of not guilty and did not testify .

For the prosecution, that moral message, as prosecutor Matthew Colangelo said earlier in the trial, is this: “It was election fraud, pure and simple.”

For the defense, its closing argument should include an equally direct statement, much like what Trump defense attorney Todd Blanche has said: “President Trump is innocent. President Trump did not commit any crimes. The Manhattan district attorney’s office should never have brought this case.”

There is at least one more purpose in closing arguments. It is to arm jurors with the arguments they need – either to shut down naysayers or gently persuade those in doubt – for when the real battle occurs, inside the jury room during deliberations. One way to do that is to find language from the instructions the judge will give to the jury, restate them in plain English and, in effect, make it look as if they are aligned with the judge and the law.

Less is more

A major goal of both prosecutors and defense attorneys is to untangle all of the evidence and testimony. They must cut through the distracting details and tell jurors, in effect, “Now you know why this witness was important” or “the document doesn’t lie – it shows you …”

Prosecutors in this case must focus on why Trump was involved in the alleged conspiracy and what he knew about the alleged payments.

In my experience over 45 years, the wise path is to start the closing argument with the big picture of “What did we have to prove?” and then answering in a series of bullet points that explain how they proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

To this end, a limited and focused use of exhibits is best – not each and every bit of evidence. Less is more also regarding salacious details, the adultery and Trump’s own vulgar words . The jury just needs the reminder – they’ll recall the details.

With star witness Michael Cohen , an attorney and Trump’s former fixer, it may be different. The prosecution can’t hide from his lies and flaws, which Trump’s defense attorneys hammered home to the jury, so it’s up to the prosecution to embrace Cohen’s failures .

Put simply, prosecutors must show that it doesn’t matter how big a liar Cohen has been in his past if, in this case, he has the receipts to back up his testimony.

A reasonable doubt?

For defense attorneys, their goal is to reassert Trump’s innocence and argue that there is plenty of reasonable doubt in the prosecution’s case.

That means pounding away at Cohen’s lack of credibility and denying that any crime was committed. If anything, they may argue, these alleged crimes were no more than bookkeeping errors that Trump didn’t know about.

But if the defense portrays everything as lies, as Trump has claimed, they may paint themselves into a corner. If the jury believes, for example, that Stormy Daniels was telling the truth when she said she had sex with Trump, then Trump’s denials may work against his lawyer’s defense strategy.

The defense has one more daunting task: to strike the balance between attacking Cohen and explaining why the lawyer Trump hired is not corroborated by the reams of evidence – and Trump’s own words.

And the defense must decide what its goal is. Is it an outright acquittal, or a hung jury in which a unanimous decision was unable to be reached?

If it is the latter, expect to have a major push on Cohen’s failings and a lack of corroboration in the hope that at least one juror will stand firm and say, “That’s just not enough.”

But the last word in these final arguments goes to the prosecutors. Because they must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, they will give their closing argument last and know what they have to respond to.

Forget Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen — it’s accountants who could seal Trump’s fate
Opening statements are the most important part of a trial – as lawyers in Trump’s hush money case know well

Jules Epstein does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg speaks during a news conference about former President Donald Trump’s arraignment on April 4, 2023.

Open access
Published: 29 May 2024

Cannabis use in a Canadian long-term care facility: a case study

Lynda G. Balneaves 1 , 4 ,
Abeer A. Alraja 1 ,
Genevieve Thompson 1 ,
Jamie L. Penner 1 ,
Philip St. John 2 ,
Daniella Scerbo 1 &
Joanne van Dyck 3

BMC Geriatrics volume 24 , Article number: 467 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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Metrics details

Following the legalization of cannabis in Canada in 2018, people aged 65 + years reported a significant increase in cannabis consumption. Despite limited research with older adults regarding the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, there is increasing interest and use among this population, particularly for those who have chronic illnesses or are at end of life. Long-term Care (LTC) facilities are required to reflect on their care and policies related to the use of cannabis, and how to address residents’ cannabis use within what they consider to be their home.

Using an exploratory case study design, this study aimed to understand how one LTC facility in western Canada addressed the major policy shift related to medical and non-medical cannabis. The case study, conducted November 2021 to August 2022, included an environmental scan of existing policies and procedures related to cannabis use at the LTC facility, a quantitative survey of Healthcare Providers’ (HCP) knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cannabis, and qualitative interviews with HCPs and administrators. Quantitative survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data.

A total of 71 HCPs completed the survey and 12 HCPs, including those who functioned as administrators, participated in the interview. The largest knowledge gaps were related to dosing and creating effective treatment plans for residents using cannabis. About half of HCPs reported providing care in the past month to a resident who was taking medical cannabis (54.9%) and a quarter (25.4%) to a resident that was taking non-medical cannabis. The majority of respondents (81.7%) reported that lack of knowledge, education or information about medical cannabis were barriers to medical cannabis use in LTC. From the qualitative data, we identified four key findings regarding HCPs’ attitudes, cannabis access and use, barriers to cannabis use, and non-medical cannabis use.

Conclusions

Peer Review reports

In October 2018, Canada became the second country to legalize non-medical cannabis [ 1 ]. Despite the increasing interest in cannabis among Canadians of all ages [ 2 ], the percentage of individuals over the age of 15 years reporting cannabis use a year following legalization remained relatively unchanged at 18% [3]. The only age group to report a significant increase in cannabis consumption was those aged 65 + years, with 7.6% reporting cannabis use in the past 3 months [ 3 ] in 2019 compared to 4% in 2018. This upward trend in cannabis use among Canadians 65 years or older was also observed in 2021 [ 4 ].

This increase may reflect a growing acceptance of cannabis among older populations who were previously dissuaded from taking cannabis due to its illegal status as well as limited accessibility through legal means. In addition, the rise in cannabis use among older adults may reflect a harm reduction approach, substituting cannabis for other recreational substances with substantial health risks, such as alcohol [ 5 ]. Moreover, the belief in the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis [ 6 , 7 , 8 ], such as the management of pain and sleep issues, is becoming increasingly prevalent among older adults. There has been limited research, however, among older adults in Canada to understand this progressive trend in cannabis use and the influencing factors [ 9 ].

Canada has been a world leader in cannabis legalization, launching a federal medical cannabis program in 2001. Since this time, the medical cannabis program has undergone numerous revisions, including how authorization is obtained, what types of products are available, and where cannabis is purchased. Currently, Canadians can seek medical authorization from either a physician or a nurse practitioner, and access a variety of cannabis products, including dried flower, capsules, and oils, which are purchased online through a licensed producer (LP). Some individuals also apply for a personal or designated grow license to produce their own supply of dried cannabis. Outside of the medical authorization program, individuals can access non-medical cannabis through an authorized storefront. It is estimated that over 1 million Canadians are using cannabis for therapeutic purposes [4], with 247,548 individuals officially registered as of March 2022 [ 10 ]. Among the 479,400 individuals over the age of 65 who reported cannabis use in the third quarter of 2019, 52% utilized cannabis exclusively for medical reasons, and another 24% reported using cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes [ 3 ].

Despite the growing interest in cannabis as a therapeutic agent, there has been limited human research due to its illegal status in many countries, as well as the challenges posed by the complexity of the cannabis plant compared to single agent, pharmaceutical forms of cannabis (e.g., nabilone) [ 11 , 12 ]. Notwithstanding these challenges, there is emergent research on the potential role of cannabis-based medicines in the management of health conditions common among older adults, including osteoarthritis [ 13 ], sleep disorders [ 14 ], dementia [ 15 ], and Parkinson’s [ 16 , 17 ], which are also prevalent among individuals residing at long-term care (LTC) facilities. For example, several studies have found cannabis-based medicines to significantly reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms and improve quality of life among people living with Alzheimer’s Disease [ 18 , 19 , 20 ]. Cannabis may also play a significant role at end of life in not only alleviating physical symptoms, such as pain, nausea and vomiting, and appetite loss, but also addressing the emotional and existential issues that may arise [ 21 ]. It has also been proposed that cannabis may have a therapeutic role among rehabilitative populations who often reside in LTC settings, including those with spinal cord injuries [ 22 , 23 ] and traumatic brain injury [ 24 ]. The evidence base surrounding cannabis as a therapeutic agent, however, remains limited with few large randomized clinical trials conducted to date.

Cannabis is not a benign substance and may pose risk to older adults, especially those living with frailty or cognitive impairment. Given the known cognitive effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabinoid found in many forms of cannabis, adults living in long-term and rehabilitative care settings may experience somnolence, confusion, and fatigue [ 25 ]. Cannabis high in THC may also negatively impact motor coordination and increase the risk of falls, especially among those with impaired balance and walking ability [ 25 ]. As research advances on cannabis, there has been growing awareness of its negative interactions with certain medications [ 26 ], which can pose a significant issue among older clients prone to polypharmacy. Lastly, numerous health conditions are contraindicated with cannabis use, including heart disease, and a personal or family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder [ 27 ].

Despite limited research with older adults regarding the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, there is increasing interest and use among this population, particularly for those who have chronic illnesses. As adults age, they are more likely to experience multimorbidity, and a significant number of older adults spend their last years of life residing in a LTC facility [ 28 , 29 ]. LTC facilities are, thus, placed in a unique position. While these facilities are considered medical institutions that provide evidence-informed supportive health care, they have also become home for individuals who are no longer able to reside safely in the community. Increasingly, these types of facilities are challenged to create home-like environments and offer residents the opportunity and autonomy to engage in potentially risky health behaviours [ 30 ]; behaviours that individuals in the community have the independence and legal right to choose, such as alcohol or tobacco consumption. With the legalization of non-medical cannabis and the growing interest in the potential of cannabis to manage challenging health conditions, it behooves LTC facilities to reflect on their care and policies related to the use of legal substances, such as cannabis, and how to address residents’ cannabis use within what they consider to be their home.

The overarching aim of this case study was to understand how one LTC facility, and its healthcare professionals (HCPs) and administrators, addressed the major policy shift in Canada related to medical and non-medical cannabis. Specific research questions included: (1) What are the experiences and perceptions of HCPs and administrators regarding the use of medical and non-medical cannabis at LTC settings?; (2) What are the perceived barriers/facilitators to medical and non-medical cannabis use at LTC facilities from the perspective of HCPs and administrators?; and (3) What are the educational needs, attitudes, and practices of HCPs at LTC facilities related to medical and non-medical cannabis?

Research design and setting

An exploratory case study design was utilized in this study. This type of case study is used to explore those situations in which the phenomenon being evaluated has no clear or single set of outcomes [ 31 ]. The case selected for this study was a large LTC facility in Western Canada. This 387-bed residential facility provides 24/7 care to a diverse population, including older adults with cognitive and physical disabilities, individuals recovering from stroke and traumatic brain injury, and those requiring end-of-life care. Individuals with these various conditions may reside in several units, including palliative care, rehabilitation, personal care home, and complex chronic care. The case study included an environmental scan of existing policies and procedures related to medical and non-medical cannabis use at the LTC facility, a quantitative survey of HCPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to medical and non-medical cannabis, and qualitative interviews with HCPs and administrators. The qualitative interviews were informed by qualitative descriptive methodology [ 32 ] and explored HCPs’ and administrators’ experiences, beliefs, perceptions regarding cannabis use in LTC, and the related barriers and facilitators.

Sample and recruitment

For the survey, a convenience sample was drawn from the entire population of accredited HCPs working in the selected facility. Eligibility criteria included being 18 + years, able to read/speak English, currently employed and providing care at the LTC facility, and able to provide informed written consent. Study participants were recruited through an emailed letter of invitation, posters placed in staff areas, and in-person presentations by a research assistant. From participants who took part in the survey, a subsample of HCPs, including administrators, who expressed interest in taking part in an interview was selected. The data collection period was from November 2021 and August 2022.

Data collection

For the environmental scan, facility administrators were approached via an emailed letter and asked to identify relevant policies and procedures related to cannabis use within their LTC facility. Policies relevant to both residents’ use of cannabis and HCPs’ practice related to medical and non-medical cannabis were requested. Provincial and federal cannabis policies were also collected.

The survey was modified from a questionnaire utilized in two national studies that examined Canadian physicians’ and nurse practitioners’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of the associated barriers and facilitators related to medical cannabis use, as well as their preferences regarding medical cannabis education [ 33 , 34 ]. This survey has been found to be internally consistent, with Cronbach’s alphas of 0.70 to 0.92 reported across subscales [ 33 , 34 ]. Slight word changes were made to reflect the fact that individuals living in LTC facility are referred to as residents, not patients, and the name of the facility was used to orientate the questions towards HCPs’ attitudes and practices related to cannabis use within the LTC setting.

Survey items were added that assessed HCPs’ practices related to addressing residents’ and family members’ questions about cannabis, as well as requests for medical cannabis authorization and follow-up care. A demographic survey that assessed gender, age, professional designation, years in practice, area(s) of practice, and education related to medical cannabis was included. The survey was available in hard copy (Supplementary Material 1 ) as well as online through the software program, Qualtrics®.

An interview guide was developed by the research team, which included a facility administrator and HCP, and was informed by the literature and previous cannabis research conducted by members of the research team [ 35 ] (Supplementary Material 2 ). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all but one interview was conducted by the project coordinator (AAA) via Zoom, with one interview occurring over the phone. The interviews were 20–30 min in length and were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Both the survey and interview were completed at times preferred by the respondents, including within and outside work time. No honoraria were provided for study participants.

Data analysis

The policies identified through the environmental scan were reviewed and summarized in table format, with similarities, contradictions and gaps identified.

Quantitative survey data was uploaded into the statistical program, SPSS® v.25. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic information, knowledge about medical cannabis and related attitudes, perceived barriers and facilitators, practice experiences, and preferred educational approaches.

Perceived knowledge gap was calculated by computing the difference between perceived current and desired knowledge levels (i.e., “the level of knowledge you desire” about medical cannabis). Rather than using averages, the knowledge gap was calculated based on how much greater an individual’s desired knowledge level was compared to their current knowledge level [ 36 ]. Only response pairs (i.e., current and desired knowledge) were used, and responses where the desired level was lower than the current level were excluded. To further elucidate, the knowledge gap was calculated by having each respondent’s current knowledge level response subtracted from their desired knowledge level response.

Prior to the onset of qualitative data analysis, the accuracy of the transcripts was checked by listening to the digital recordings. Content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data [ 37 ], with two team members (AAA and LGB) independently reading the transcripts and developing a preliminary coding scheme. Constant comparison of new and existing data ensured consistency, relevance, and comprehensiveness of emerging codes. Several strategies were applied to ensure rigour in the qualitative analysis. To increase credibility, a team member with expertise in qualitative inquiry (LGB) monitored the qualitative data and its analysis. Confirmability was addressed by using the participants’ own words throughout the process of data analysis, interpretation, and description. An audit trail was kept documenting the activities of the study, including data analysis decisions.

Environmental scan of cannabis-related policies

Administrators at the LTC facility provided the research team with the policies and procedures that addressed the management and use of medical and non-medical cannabis within the facility. The guiding policy adopted by the LTC facility was a generic policy applicable to all sites and facilities governed by a regional health authority. This policy, entitled “Patient Use of Medical Cannabis (Marijuana)” was issued in June 2020. The policy, which aimed to provide individuals with “reasonable access to medical cannabis”, outlined numerous issues that might arise with institutional cannabis use, including “ordering, labeling, packaging, storage, security, administration, documentation and monitoring requirements for the use of medical cannabis”. Key aspects of the policy are summarised in a table found in the Supplementary Material section (Supplementary Material 3 ).

Other relevant policies that were reviewed included the standards of practice issued by the provincial college of nurses and the college of physicians and surgeons [ 38 , 39 , 40 ], which provided direction to HCPs working in LTC about their scope of practice regarding medical and non-medical cannabis. The regional health authority’s smoke-free policy [ 41 ] also informed how inhaled forms of medical and non-medical cannabis were addressed, requiring residents to leave the facility grounds to smoke or vape cannabis. Lastly, the overarching federal Cannabis Act and Regulations provided guidance to both administrators and HCPs regarding the Canadian regulations specific to medical and non-medical cannabis [ 1 , 42 ]. Together, existing facility, regional, and national policies created a context in which cannabis was framed as neither a medicine nor a controlled substance, but something unique and complex that must be navigated by residents, family members and staff in LTC settings.

Quantitative survey

Demographic characteristics.

From the approximately 318 eligible HCPs employed at the LTC facility, a total of 71 participants consented and completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 22.3%. With regards to response rate by profession, pharmacists (50.0%) and social workers (42.9%) were best represented, followed by physicians (23.1%), nurses (21.0%), and PT/OT (11.4%).

Most respondents were women (71.8%), registered nurses (62.0%) and worked within the palliative care unit (76.1%) at the facility. The average age of the sample was 40.9 years and the largest proportion of the sample had worked in the LTC facility for 5 or less years. See Table 1 for additional details.

Knowledge about medical cannabis

HCPs reported being most knowledgeable about the therapeutic potential of cannabis (3.1/5.0), potential risks of medical cannabis (2.9/5.0), and the different ways to administer medical cannabis (2.9/5.0). They reported being least knowledgeable about the dosing of medical cannabis (2.0/5.0), how to create effective treatment plans related to medical cannabis (2.1/5.0), and the similarities and differences between different forms of cannabis products and prescription cannabinoid medications (2.2/5.0). The top three ranked knowledge gaps mirrored the items ranked lowest with regards to knowledge (see Table 2 ). Overall, there was high interest in gaining more medical cannabis knowledge, with all knowledge items scoring greater than 4 on desired knowledge level.

Practice experiences with medical cannabis

About half of HCPs reported providing care in the past month to a resident who was taking medical cannabis (54.9%) and a quarter (25.4%) to a resident that was taking non-medical cannabis. Over 60% had been approached by a resident and/or a family member to discuss the potential use of medical cannabis; however, few HCPs reported initiating these conversations. Moreover, when asked if they felt comfortable discussing medical cannabis, 32.4% of HCPs disagreed (data not shown). Less than 20% reported helping residents, either directly or indirectly, to use medical cannabis and a very small proportion (1.3–2.8%) reported assisting residents’ consumption of non-medical cannabis. With regards to authorizing the use of medical cannabis or prescribing cannabinoid medication, which in Canada can be done by either a physician or nurse practitioner, just over half of physicians reported supporting residents’ access to these types of treatment. See Table 3 for additional details.

Barriers to medical cannabis use in long-term care

Lack of knowledge, education or information about medical cannabis were reported to be barriers to medical cannabis use in LTC by most HCPs (81.7%). Moreover, the uncertain risks and benefits of medical cannabis and the lack of clinical guidelines were also perceived as barriers by 66.2% and 63.4% of HCPs, respectively. The complete list of barriers is presented in Table 4 .

Education about medical cannabis

Most of the HCPs agreed that additional education on medical cannabis would increase their comfort with discussing this treatment option with residents and family members (87.4%; data not shown). With regards to indirectly or directly administering medical cannabis to a resident, most HCPs for which this fell within their scope of practice also reported they would feel more comfortable if they had further education (59.2% and 56.4%, respectively; data not shown).

Over half of HCPs had not received any prior education related to medical cannabis (54.9%). Those that had, received it from conferences or workshops (65.6%), books or journal articles (43.8%) or through a colleague (37.5%). While almost half the sample (49.3%) reported receiving information from peer-reviewed sources, nearly a quarter received information about medical cannabis from a non-peer reviewed source or from a resident or family member. Some participants also received information from a cannabis industry source. Table 5 provides additional details.

The preferred sources of medical cannabis education were online learning programs (i.e., continuing education) (74.6%), monographs (66.2%), and topic-specific one-pagers (64.8%). See Fig. 1 for further details.

Percentage of respondents indicating prefered method of cannabis education*

Qualitative findings

A total of 12 HCPs were interviewed regarding their perceptions and experiences related to medical and non-medical cannabis in the LTC facility. This included 3 HCPs who were administrators, 6 nurses, 1 physician, 1 social worker and 1 pharmacist. Four main themes were identified.

Attitudes regarding medical cannabis: cautious support

There were mixed attitudes regarding the potential role of medical cannabis in general and in LTC populations. While some HCPs felt medical cannabis was a “good idea” for which there was beginning research regarding its health benefits, other HCPs believed additional high-quality evidence was needed prior to medical cannabis becoming a therapeutic option.

I think it’s [medical cannabis] the fair option, it helps some people, but it doesn’t help others. So, I think we need a bit more evidence and a bit more research and having it available sort of allows for that research to occur (Physician; PC07).

There appeared to be greater acceptance for medical cannabis use by individuals at end of life compared to those not considered immediately palliative (i.e., living with dementia, stroke, or traumatic brain injury), the latter of which comprise the majority of the people living in LTC settings. For individuals receiving palliative care, some HCPs perceived medical cannabis to be beneficial in managing pain, nausea, and anxiety, as well as reducing the use of other medications that may be problematic (e.g., opioids) due to their side effects. The potential value of medical cannabis in “adding quality of life and living” at the end of life was also mentioned.

I’m working on the palliative care unit right now. A lot of patients that I’ve seen use it [medical cannabis] for anxiety purposes, or for nausea… some people find beneficial. So, I’ve seen it – people find it helpful for those reasons, and then they have to take less of their other medications. So, if it’s worked well for them and that’s what they prefer to do, then I think it should be an option for people, especially if some people find it beneficial. (Registered nurse; PC03)

Within the context of LTC, several HCPs also spoke of the importance of respecting residents’ autonomy and previous experiences taking medical cannabis. The reality of a LTC facility being a resident’s “home” was particularly influential in HCPs’ support of medical cannabis being included as part of a holistic approach to care.

I guess because people live at [LTC facility’s name], that is their home and if they were at home in the community, they would be able to access it [medical cannabis]. (Registered nurse, PC02)

I think it’s a part of people’s lives. And I think if we’re allowing people to have certain things and keeping it as part of their treatment because if you look at a holistic view, preventing somebody from doing something that they’ve been doing for many years is not going to help them be accepting of other types of therapies. (Pharmacist, PC09)

Some HCPs also perceived medical cannabis as offering an alternative to medical treatments that were not consistently effective in managing challenging health conditions, such as dementia and agitation.

HCPs’ attitudes towards medical cannabis varied across different products and routes of administration. Given the existing smoke-free policy at the facility, HCPs were more supportive of edibles, oils, oral sprays or topical creams and lotions than any form of inhaled medical cannabis (i.e., smoking and vaping). They were concerned not only about lung health, environmental exposure, and maintaining a scent-free facility, but also about how to safely manage vulnerable residents travelling off the facility’s property to smoke or vape.

Medical cannabis access and use: concern, confusion, and limited conversations

According to HCPs interviewed, most residents using medical cannabis obtained their authorization prior to moving to LTC. Individuals who sought authorization after arriving at the facility struggled to have their requests acknowledged or addressed by the health care team. As one nurse shared:

I do remember I had a resident that did ask about it [medical cannabis]. And whenever it was kind of brought up, it didn’t seem to be acknowledged all the time. Or there were people who didn’t like the idea of having a resident on it. (Registered nurse; PC06)

Conversations about medical cannabis were perceived to be severely limited by the culture surrounding medical cannabis at the LTC facility. The lack of open discussion about medical cannabis was seen by some to create conflict and negatively impact the development of trust between residents, family members, and the health care team: “ Without that discussion, it does create conflict within the team and between the physician and family, and perhaps that could impact the trusting relationship” (Administrator; PA03). Further, several HCPs expressed the belief that conversations about non-pharmacological forms of medical cannabis could not be initiated by them due to policy issues; residents who expressed interest but did not have prior authorization were instead directed towards pharmaceutical forms of cannabis.

There have been residents who have asked about using cannabis. And as I said, you can’t initiate it, if they’re going to get it on their own, fair enough. That’s pretty much been the experience I’ve had with residents with just non-pharmaceutical medical cannabis . (Physician, PC07)

The only HCP-initiated conversations about medical cannabis mentioned were those occurring between pharmacists and residents, which focused on the potential side effects, benefits, and “red flags” to watch out for, such as allergic reactions.

HCPs shared that for those residents with authorization, they or a support person were responsible for ordering the medical cannabis product from an LP, which would then send the product to either the resident at the LTC facility or to their support person’s home. The cannabis product was then stored in a locked drawer in the resident’s room if they were self-administering or in a medication room if nursing staff were assisting with administration. According to one pharmacist, the pharmacy department was not permitted, due to existing federal regulations, to either directly order or dispense medical cannabis:

No, we don’t dispense any cannabis. It’s considered resident’s own. So, we don’t acquire it for them. They have to directly be the holders of it and have it provided to them directly. And I think that has more to do with the regulations within Canada, the resident has to have certain type of documentation in order to have medical cannabis. So, it’s directly to them, we’re not able to order it for them or anything like that on their behalf. (Pharmacist; PC09)

With regards to the type of medical cannabis products permitted in the facility, due to non-smoking policies and concerns about safety issues and the “smell”, combustible forms and inhaled routes of administration (i.e., joints, vaporizers, vape pens) were not allowed; instead, ingestible forms were mentioned most frequently by HCPs.

There was some confusion and concerns expressed regarding the storage and disposal of medical cannabis, which may have reflected changes in facility policies over time. Some HCPs expressed concerns about the storage of cannabis in residents’ rooms and the lack of “safeguards” to limit potential diversion and allow an accurate “count” of medical cannabis.

We have to go into our Pyxis machine to retrieve a key to open that drawer. So, by going by that you’re able to know who’s actually accessed the key, but once the key is out you have no idea how many people have used that key and accessed that drawer before it’s gone back. You have no way of knowing how much cannabis has been taken out [of the drawer] or used, because you know there’s no way to measure it. So that’s a huge problem, I find. (Registered nurse; PC01)

This nurse was particularly concerned about the potential risk of being accused of diversion:

I’m not worried about people abusing it, it’s more the worry of being accused. You know, like, if a resident says, ‘why is my cannabis running out already, I thought I had enough for a few more weeks?’ and we’re like, ‘I don’t know’, right? There’s the potential for that sort of thing to happen. (Registered nurse; PC01)

There was also a perception that there was a lack of direction from the facility regarding the appropriate disposal of medical cannabis. Most believed residents or family members were expected to remove any unused product once the resident was no longer at the facility. When such disposal was not possible, the policy was to destroy the cannabis product in a manner similar to narcotics or other controlled substances. However, variations in practice occurred with some HCPs described “throwing it in the trash” or using a medical waste disposal bin with or without a witness.

Barriers to medical cannabis use: safety, stigma and lack of knowledge

Numerous barriers to the use of medical cannabis by LTC residents were identified by HCPs. Foremost, the policies related to how cannabis products were ordered, accessed, stored, and administered were perceived to be complicated and created barriers to residents wanting to take medical cannabis, particularly those without family support. The inability of the LTC facility to order medical cannabis on behalf of a resident was perceived to be especially problematic, as described by one registered nurse:

I know when it became legal, there were a few residents who have inquired about it, but they didn’t have the family resources in place to be able to get it because I believe there’s some hoops that you have to go through to be able to have it medically prescribed in getting it on to the unit. And so, the ones who were interested in it didn’t have those supports in place, so they weren’t able to get it prescribed for them. (Registered nurse; PC05)

The lack of awareness and understanding of the regional policies related to medical cannabis by some of the clinical staff was also seen as being problematic. As one registered nurse shared:

My only concern is that there’s a lot of rules around being able to administer and how it’s [medical cannabis] administered, which can again make things a bit complicated. I would say that’s probably my biggest concern is just it’s hard to remember everything that you have to do when you’re trying to administer it or helping a resident. So, you don’t get involved. (Registered nurse; PC06)

Several HCPs attributed the lack of awareness about cannabis policy to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which overshadowed all other health issues within their facility: “ Everybody’s been so focused on COVID for a year and a half that there hasn’t been really time to really think about or educate on other things. ” (Registered nurse; PC01).

HCPs suggested that more “straight forward” and tailored policies were needed that simplified how medical cannabis was managed. Having facility-specific policies would acknowledge the uniqueness of the LTC population, who may have cognitive impairment, limited social support, and complex healthcare plans. As one nurse shared: “ If it’s a dementia patient, they can’t really administer it on their own. So how do we follow the policy to help the patient take the cannabis? How would we know when they would want to take it PRN?” (Registered nurse; PC03). It was also recommended that the policy that prevented the facility from directly ordering and supplying medical cannabis required revision so that LTC residents were not reliant on family members to gain access. Lastly, several HCPs suggested that medical cannabis policies need to be well advertised and additional training developed for clinical staff to enhance their awareness and comfort level in providing appropriate and supportive care.

There needs to be a training session… staff have to read through them [cannabis policies] and get instructions about them, sort of like a self-learning activity. But that is not part of what we do when orienting. (Registered nurse; PC02)

Another perceived barrier frequently mentioned by HCPs was their lack of knowledge regarding the potential risks and benefits of medical cannabis. There was limited understanding about the effects of medical cannabis, how it may interact with other medications and health conditions, what side effects could arise, as well as basic information about starting dose, titration, and difference between THC and cannabidiol (CBD). Without such information, HCPs were perceived to be very hesitant about recommending or supporting medical cannabis as a treatment alternative for LTC residents:

There’s lots of unknown, that’s the problem. If there were more specifics about the recreational and the medical use of cannabis, then I think health care professionals would be more likely to want to provide it to the residents. But if not, then that’s kind of what’s hindering health care professionals to provide it. (Registered nurse; PC08)

There was also substantial discussion by HCPs regarding the “stigma” that they perceived to exist within the facility regarding medical cannabis. As described by one pharmacist: “ I think the understanding of cannabis, regardless of if it’s medical or anything, it’s still considered in many people’s minds as an illicit drug. It hasn’t shaken that. And I think there’s a lot of stereotypes around the type of people that use cannabis” (Pharmacist; PC09). The stigmatization of medical cannabis was perceived to be particularly pronounced among the medical staff, which led to what was described as a “hands-off approach” with regards to authorizing medical cannabis.

Almost all HCPs and administrators interviewed recommended that education programming and resources for HCPs be developed to address the lingering stigma associated with cannabis and the knowledge gaps that exist about medical cannabis and associated policies. Several participants recommended that education initiatives should first target physicians, who were responsible for authorizing medical cannabis in the facility. Physicians were perceived to need education on when and for whom medical cannabis would be appropriate, the latest evidence regarding efficacy and safety (i.e., drug interactions), and what their obligations and responsibilities were as the authorizing HCP. Participants also thought that all HCPs could benefit from additional training regarding medical cannabis, including the different types of cannabinoids and products, the process of titration, and dosing. Some of the nurses interviewed also expressed the need for education about the legal implications of medical cannabis and their role regarding provision and administration:

I think the legal implications of cannabis use, I think that would be a good focus for the nursing group – so that they understood what their obligations were, what they could be held accountable for, those kinds of things. (Administrator; PA02)

Finally, numerous HCPs spoke of the need for “safeguards” and clear policies and procedures to ensure that clinical staff were aware of what type of medical cannabis products residents were taking, what was the “right dose”, and the possibility of cannabis interacting with other medications. As shared by one pharmacist:

So that we know that this patient is on it because there are potential drug interactions with other things that patients are taking. So, we just have to be cautious and aware that patients are doing this. Because especially right now with studies, there haven’t been a lot of great studies on drug interactions. (Pharmacist; PC09)

Non-medical cannabis use: balancing autonomy and safety

HCPs were asked about their attitudes and experiences about residents’ use of non-medical cannabis in the facility. Two disparate points of view became apparent – those that perceived non-medical cannabis as a legal substance that should be available to LTC residents given the facility was their home and those that saw non-medical cannabis as a stigmatized substance that could lead to problematic use and disruptions in the care environment.

Because it is somebody’s home and so you’re trying to honour and match what their lifestyle and aspects of their life at home were and matching that here [LTC facility]. The bad is, while it is somebody’s home, it’s the next person’s home too, and so it’s trying to balance that, right? In an institutional setting, trying to make it as home-like as possible but, at the same time, you know, monitoring and matching for what everyone’s needs are. (Registered nurse; PA01)

Professionally, I think that it creates issues in terms of trying to police the use of recreational cannabis. In terms of smoking cigarette tobacco, that’s an issue in itself. We’re a non-smoking facility. So, adding cannabis to the mix creates issues…having staff perhaps exposed or other people exposed if people are using cannabis indoors or where they’re not supposed. Or if they want to access and use cannabis outside, who’s going to take them for that? Because that creates exposure too for staff or others who may have to escort them. (Registered nurse; PA03)

HCPs frequently mentioned the complexity of managing residents’ non-medical use of cannabis given the facility’s non-smoking policy that required residents to leave the facility grounds to use inhaled forms of cannabis. With staff unable to transport residents outside, concerns were raised regarding the safety of residents, particularly in the winter months, and who would be responsible for their transfer in and out of the facility as well as monitoring how much cannabis was consumed. In addition, residents’ access to non-medical cannabis was again dependent on having a support person that was able and willing to transport the product to the facility, posing a potential equity issue for some residents:

If someone’s wanting to go smoke outside, then mobility might be an issue. If they don’t have the right wheelchair or family to take them outside for that. If they have the access. Like, if they need family to go and buy it and bring it to them, that could be more of an access issue depending on their family support. (Registered nurse; PC03)

There was specific concern expressed for individuals in the rehabilitation units who may have pre-existing substance use issues. For these individuals, HCPs were concerned that allowing access to non-medical cannabis could add to an already complex care plan. In addition, with many vulnerable residents living at the facility, concerns were raised regarding them being “incredibly suggestible” to others encouraging their consumption of cannabis:

These people – they have an addiction. For sure they’re making choices, but those choices are influenced by physical withdrawal or influenced by stress; they’re influenced by lots of things. So, I would hate to put residents in a position where that was one other [non-medical cannabis] thing they had to contend with during the rehab stay. (Administrator, PA02)

The use of cannabis for therapeutic and recreational purposes is becoming more prevalent within older adult populations, both in the community as well as within healthcare institutions. There has also been growing interest in the possible role of medical cannabis for select chronic, rehabilitative, and palliative health conditions, frequently found among individuals residing within LTC settings. LTC facilities, thus, face the complex practice and policy implications associated with a substance that has been surrounded in controversy for close to a century. This case study is among the first to explore in one LTC facility in Western Canada how cannabis use is being addressed following the legalization of non-medical cannabis products, and what challenges exist. It provides an important snapshot of the complexities surrounding cannabis use in LTC and a foundation for future research.

Cannabis use in LTC settings: a clash of cultures

One challenge experienced by people residing in LTC facilities is the tension that exists between social and medical models of care that most facilities are founded on. Historically, LTC facilities have operated as what Goffman [ 43 ] termed “total institutions”, places where every aspect of a person’s life was controlled by others, paternalism dominated, and the medical needs of people were what drove care practices. Aspects of the total institution still exist, as noted in this case study, whereby cannabis use is in the control of the HCPs; it is dispensed during medication administration times rather than being freely available for use by the resident when they so desire as would be in a person’s home. In trying to create more home-like environments and meet the broad range of social and emotional needs of residents, resident-centred care practices and relational models of care have emerged [ 44 ]. Within this milieu, resident autonomy and choice are at the forefront and HCPs are there to assist, rather than take control of residents’ daily lives. In the most ideal settings, behaviours that are considered ‘risky’, like alcohol consumption, are treated as social experiences, not care tasks to be managed [ 45 ]. The tension arises, however, that despite the desire to be resident-centred, most LTC facilities are highly regulated by governments, putting limits to resident choice and, therefore, their autonomy [ 45 ]. While HCPs in our study acknowledged that residents should have the right to use medical or non-medical cannabis, the regional and institutional policies surrounding safety and the rights of other residents and staff to not be exposed to potentially risky behaviour underscored many of their views. LTC facilities would be wise to consider the principles of dignity of risk [ 46 ] with relation to cannabis consumption/use along the frail elderly population that reside in the home.

Cannabis policies and LTC: one size doesn’t fit all

The cannabis policies developed at the advent of legalization, without consideration of the unique populations and healthcare challenges that exist within LTC facilities, created numerous barriers to residents accessing and using cannabis, as well as for HCPs attempting to provide appropriate care. One of the most significant challenges experienced by LTC residents in our study was the inability to obtain a medical cannabis authorization from a physician working in the facility. Another significant challenge was the regional policy that medical cannabis could not be couriered directly to the LTC pharmacy; instead, the resident or their support persons were responsible for ordering and bringing cannabis products into the facility. Both challenges created enormous inequity in which residents that lacked the physical and cognitive ability to obtain authorization and order medical cannabis from an LP or were without a support person willing and able to obtain medical cannabis on their behalf, were unable to access medical cannabis. Given the nature of LTC populations, these policies led to only a few residents being able to access and use medical cannabis as part of their care.

Another policy that had substantial safety implications for residents wanting to use inhaled forms of cannabis was the regional and institutional no smoking policies that prevented both tobacco and cannabis products from being consumed within the centre as well as on the grounds. As a result, residents had to make their own way, or be accompanied by a support person, to walk approximately 300 m to the public sidewalk where they were allowed to smoke or vape cannabis. With the LTC facility located in a region where winter temperatures can reach − 35 Celsius and sidewalks are covered in snow and ice, this poses significant risk for residents who may be at heightened risk of falls and utilizing assisted walking devices. Similar safety implications of smoke-free policies have been identified in previous research [ 47 ].

Lastly, the policies surrounding the storage and self-administration of medical cannabis for those residents with the physical and emotional capacity (or with a support person willing to administer) may pose potential safety and liability risks and contribute to the concerns held by some HCPs about the use of cannabis in LTC. While residents’ autonomy must be respected, as well as their own expertise with regards to medical cannabis use, the value of standardized medication protocols to ensure the safety of residents as well as to inform care decisions must be acknowledged. The tension experienced in balancing LTC residents’ autonomy with health and safety concerns in the context of substance use has been cited in a recent scoping review [ 48 ] as well as prior research that has examined the use of tobacco in residential care settings [ 49 ].

The policy-related challenges identified by study participants suggest that consultations with LTC residents, families and HCPs are urgently needed to develop and refine cannabis policies that address the needs and reality of individuals living and receiving care in LTC. Future policy reviews must balance LTC residents’ autonomy with the safety issues associated with cannabis use (i.e., dignity of risk), particularly among older adults and those with cognitive and physical impairments. Approaching cannabis policies and procedures in LTC from a harm reduction perspective [ 50 ] with regards to supporting safer consumption of medical cannabis (e.g., route of administration, designated consumption areas) may also be important. Further, the unique context of LTC must also be acknowledged in that for many residents, a LTC facility is their home, and will continue to be so until the end of their lives. But the shared nature of a LTC setting requires that some boundaries be established to protect all residents, as well as those working within LTC. From a staff perspective, a review of policies related to the administration and documentation of cannabis use is needed to protect them from claims of diversion as well as other medicolegal challenges.

Cannabis knowledge gap and stigma in LTC

Across both the quantitative and qualitative data, the gap in knowledge regarding cannabis and the need for continuing education for HCPs working in LTC were readily apparent. When HCPs are unfamiliar about the various forms of medical cannabis, appropriate dosing and titration schedules, and routes of administration, they are hindered in their ability to engage in shared decision making with LTC residents as well as provide high-quality care [ 51 , 52 , 53 , 54 ]. Education is particularly needed that is tailored to the unique risks and benefits of medical cannabis use among LTC populations, including those living with physical and cognitive impairment. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of cannabis due to changes in how medications and drugs are metabolised, and the predominance of polypharmacy among those residing in LTC may further complicate how individuals respond to cannabis [ 55 ]. Therefore, HCPs working in LTC must be aware of how cannabis use may impact individuals’ mobility, memory, and behaviour, as well as the potential for dependency, particularly among those who have experienced substance use issues in the past.

Beyond basic education regarding cannabis and its effects, HCPs must also become aware and informed about existing federal, regional, and institutional policies as well as professional practice standards regarding both medical and non-medical cannabis. The study findings highlighted the uncertainty many HCPs experienced regarding how medical and non-medical cannabis was to be accessed, authorized, administered, stored, and disposed within the LTC facility and what was within their professional scope of practice. Legal concerns about liability, workplace safety, and diversion were also raised.

It is important that future cannabis education programs targeting LTC settings also address the underlying stigma and stereotypes that still surround cannabis use [ 56 , 57 ], despite the existence of a medical cannabis program in Canada for over 20 years and the recent legalization of non-medical cannabis. Experiential training that promotes non-judgmental communication that avoids stigmatizing language (e.g., user, addict, marijuana) and considers both the risks and benefits of cannabis use, particularly within the context of end-of-life care, will help address the stigma that HCPs and LTC residents and families may hold towards cannabis.

With the legalization of cannabis in many regions around the world, it is imperative that undergraduate health professional training programs include information about both medical and non-medical cannabis. Currently, there is a knowledge gap among HCPs due to the lack of standardized curriculum for medical cannabis across nursing or medical schools [ 35 , 58 ]. Understanding such foundational knowledge such as the endocannabinoid system, the different forms and types of cannabis, and the potential health effects will enable physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other HCPs to engage in informed conversations with individuals and families both within and beyond LTC [ 33 ]. In addition, the development of continuing education programs focused on cannabis will ensure practicing HCPs have current knowledge about cannabis, including existing policies and programs relevant to medical and non-medical cannabis. For example, the Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health created asynchronous e-learning modules to provide evidence-based knowledge for various clinicians [ 59 ].

Non-medical cannabis use in LTC: it’s legal but…

Despite non-medical cannabis being a legal substance for over three years in Canada at the time of the case study, the use of non-medical cannabis by LTC residents was considered controversial amongst the HCPs interviewed. Not only were HCPs limited in their ability to support the use of non-medical cannabis due to regional policies that prohibited non-medical cannabis consumption at any healthcare facility and surrounding grounds but concerns about potential safety risks and disruptions to the care environment made some HCPs hesitant about supporting residents’ use of non-medical cannabis.

Notwithstanding these challenges, at least a quarter of HCPs surveyed reported providing care to a LTC resident who used non-medical cannabis, which suggests that regulatory and policy changes are required to ensure there is equity across LTC residents who may express interest in non-medical cannabis, as well as to address the unique safety and care issues associated with recreational cannabis use in LTC populations. Similar to medical cannabis, LTC residents’ autonomy must be considered in future policy changes related to non-medical cannabis to facilitate care that is free from stigma and bias, respects residents’ rights to make informed decisions and to live with risk, and to create a home-like environment where residents can engage in activities that were an important part of their lives before entering LTC.

Lessons can be drawn from literature that has examined the use of other legal substances, such as alcohol and tobacco in LTC [ 48 , 60 ], and the need to develop person-centered care plans that ensure the safety of the individual, fellow residents, and the healthcare team.

Limitations

Like all case studies, the findings cannot be extrapolated to other LTC settings and populations. Given that this study was undertaken in Canada, which has a socialized healthcare system and legalized both medical and non-medical cannabis, the experiences and attitudes of HCPs who participated may be unique and limit the generalizability of the findings. However, there are lessons to be learned regarding the challenges that residents in LTC facilities face in using medical and non-medical cannabis, as well as the potential need for both education and policy reform to better support HCPs in providing appropriate, safe, and person-centred care of LTC residents. In addition, the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data allowed triangulation during the data analysis and helped improved the rigor of the findings [ 61 ]. Recruitment and data collection for this study also occurred during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the response rate was lower than desired and there was limited diversity among study participants with regards health profession designation. However, the proportion of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other allied health professions reflected the overall staff composition of the LTC facility.

Implications for future research

Beyond the policy and practice implications discussed earlier, the study findings also point to the urgent need for research focused on cannabis use among populations commonly found within LTC settings. The lack of evidence regarding the potential health effects of cannabis in the management of diseases such as dementia, arthritis, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis led many of the HCPs interviewed to be hesitant about authorizing and supervising cannabis use for LTC residents living with these conditions. While there is a growing number of studies being undertaken focused on medical cannabis, many are limited by their sample size and study design. It is only through high-quality clinical trials that evaluate the efficacy and safety of medical cannabis that a change in practice will occur.

Future medical cannabis research must also be developed in a manner that is inclusive of older adults and those living in LTC. The exclusion of such populations from clinical research has been previously identified as problematic [ 62 ], resulting in research findings that lack generalizability and pose challenges in determining the applicability of research to older adults who may be living with numerous co-morbidities and using multiple medications. While the inclusion of older adults in medical cannabis clinical trials may be more methodologically and ethically challenging, it will lead to evidence that will inform both future policies and practices.

Lastly, our case study offers insight into the reality and challenges of cannabis use by residents of one LTC facility. Additional research across different jurisdictions is needed to explore how LTC settings are addressing cannabis use and to learn from their experiences. We encourage the continued use of mixed methods study designs to ensure the experiences and perspectives of residents, family members and HCPs are captured alongside administrative data related to medical and non-medical cannabis use.

With the legalization of medical and non-medical cannabis in jurisdictions around the world, LTC facilities will be obligated to develop policies, procedures and healthcare services that are able to accommodate residents’ use of cannabis in a respectful and evidence-informed manner. Balancing the safety concerns against the potential therapeutic value of cannabis, as well as considering residents’ autonomy and the home-like environment of LTC, will be important considerations in how cannabis use is addressed and regulated. Our case study highlights the lack of knowledge, inequities, and stigma that continue to surround cannabis in LTC. There is an urgent need for research that not only explores the potential risks and benefits of cannabis, but also informs the development of more nuanced and equitable policies and education resources that will support reasonable and informed access to medical and non-medical cannabis for older adults and others living in LTC.

Data availability

The datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to the small sample size drawn from one health care facility but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Abbreviations

Cannabidiol

Healthcare provider

Long–term care

Tetrahydrocannabinol

Licensed Producer

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the healthcare professionals that graciously took the time to share their thoughts about cannabis use in long-term care settings. In addition, Ms. Sina Barkman, Chief Human Resources Officer, Riverview Health Centre, helped the research team navigate the complexity of conducting research in long-term care settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Funding for this study was received from the Riverview Health Centre Foundation.

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“L.G.B, G.T, J.P and P.StJ. conceptualised the study. A.A.A. and D.S. engaged in recruitment and data collection activities. L.G.B. and A.A.A. analysed and interpreted the quantitative and qualitative data and developed a first draft of the manuscript, with assistance from G.T. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.”

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Correspondence to Lynda G. Balneaves .

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Ethics approval and consent to participate.

Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the University of Manitoba Research Ethics Board (R1-2021:011 (HS24693)) and was approved by the Riverview Health Centre Research Committee. Implied consent was received from participants who completed the survey and written informed consent was obtained from all participants who completed an interview. We confirm that all methods were performed in accordance with the relevant ethical guidelines and regulations, (i.e., Tri-Council Policy Statement).

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Balneaves, L.G., Alraja, A.A., Thompson, G. et al. Cannabis use in a Canadian long-term care facility: a case study. BMC Geriatr 24 , 467 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-024-05074-2

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-024-05074-2

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Michael Schumacher’s family wins legal case against publisher over fake AI interview

FILE - Michael Schumacher announces his retirement from Formula One during a press conference at the Suzuka Circuit venue for the Japanese Formula One Grand Prix in Suzuka, Japan, Oct. 4, 2012. The family of Michael Schumacher has won legal action taken against a magazine which printed an artificial intelligence-generated interview with the Formula One great last year. (AP Photo/Itsuo Inouye, file)

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The family of Michael Schumacher has won legal action against the publisher of a magazine which printed an artificial intelligence-generated interview with the Formula 1 great.

German magazine Die Aktuelle promoted on its cover in April 2023 the words, “Michael Schumacher, the first interview!” It also wrote “it sounds deceptively real” with the supposed quotes attributed to Schumacher generated by AI. Die Aktuelle is one of many tabloid celebrity magazines in Germany.

Family spokesperson Sabine Kehm told The Associated Press by email on Thursday that legal action was successful, without making any further comment.

The compensation amount was reportedly 200,000 euros ($217,000).

German publisher Funke magazines apologized to Schumacher’s family last year for the article and fired the chief editor of Die Aktuelle.

It was while skiing in the French Alps at Meribel that Schumacher fell in December 2013 and suffered a near-fatal brain injury. His head hit a rock which split open his helmet. Since being transferred from hospital in September 2014, the seven-time F1 champion has been cared for privately at a family home in Switzerland.

The 55-year-old Schumacher retired from F1 in 2012 after winning 91 races, and five straight titles with Ferrari from 2000-04. The German driver’s other two titles were with Benetton in 1994 and 1995.

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

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If convicted in his hush money trial, here’s what Trump could face next

A guilty verdict for Trump in the New York trial would mean a mix of routine court processing and extraordinary logistical considerations, legal experts say.

Donald Trump has complained of the indignities of a cold, uncomfortable Manhattan courtroom during his hush money trial, which began jury deliberations Wednesday morning.

If convicted, Trump could face other conditions he may consider insulting, including a required inmate review by New York City’s Department of Probation.

The probation office on the 10th floor of the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse prepares presentencing reports for judges. There, Trump would be interviewed about his personal history, his mental health and the circumstances that led to his conviction.

Lawyers say the process is humbling.

“If you think the courtroom is dingy, just wait until you go to the probation office,” said Daniel Horwitz, a white-collar criminal defense attorney in New York and former prosecutor in the Manhattan district attorney’s office.

Trump hush money trial

Former prosecutors sketched out a mix of likely experiences for Trump if he were found guilty of any charge in the case, which includes 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. The case involves $130,000 in payments allegedly authorized by Trump to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election to keep her quiet about a sexual encounter she says they had.

The routine processing of convicted felons into the New York criminal justice system would include the timeline of a potential appeal. There would also be extraordinary considerations — such as how the Secret Service would protect him if he were sent to prison and whether he would be allowed to travel to campaign events if sentenced to home confinement — given Trump’s standing as a former president and the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for the election in November.

Legal experts said incarceration appeared unlikely for Trump, 77, who has no criminal record.

The Class E felony charges are punishable by 16 months to four years in prison. Among the key issues to be determined if Trump were convicted would be whether he faces some form of incarceration, either in a government facility or a private location, or a less-restrictive experience through probation.

New York Mayor Eric Adams said this month that the city’s Rikers Island jail complex and Department of Corrections were prepared if Trump were ordered to serve time.

A conviction would not disqualify him from running for offic e or serving as president if elected, constitutional experts said.

During the trial, which began April 15, prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office said Trump falsely recorded the payments involving Daniels as legal expenses and alleged they were improper campaign expenditures. Defense attorneys said Trump, who pleaded not guilty, made personal payments to protect his family from an embarrassing disclosure.

The jury, which heard closing arguments from defense lawyers and prosecutors Tuesday, must unanimously agree on a conviction or an acquittal, while a split among jurors could prompt New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan to declare a mistrial. In that situation, Bragg could decide to retry Trump, who likely would paint the outcome as a victory in his efforts to discredit the prosecution as politically motivated.

Trump’s punishment if convicted would be up to Merchan, who would receive input from the prosecution and defense in the presentencing report. Though jail or prison are unlikely , the former prosecutors said, alternatives such as probation or home confinement would create logistical challenges and potential political concerns.

If he is sentenced to probation, for example, Trump would be required to clear any out-of-state travel — such as to campaign rallies and fundraisers — with a probation officer. If Trump were to serve home confinement at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., New York authorities would likely have to work with counterparts in Florida to accommodate him, the experts said.

Such arrangements are not uncommon for convicted felons, experts said, but the details must be approved by probation officers.

“If you have a probation officer, you are not supposed to travel without permission. Your home is subject to random search because you don’t have a Fourth Amendment right to your home being private. You can get drug-tested, potentially. Travel outside the country is difficult,” said Matthew Galluzzo, another former prosecutor in the Manhattan district attorney’s office.

“That would be super awkward for someone on the campaign trail, but not impossible,” Galluzzo said. “If he had to go to a debate against Biden, he probably could go, but you’re supposed to make that request far in advance.”

Trump and Biden have agreed to two debates , the first scheduled for June 27 in Atlanta — which is likely to take place before any potential sentencing of Trump — and the second planned for Sept. 10 at a yet-undisclosed location.

Before a sentencing date were scheduled, Trump’s lawyers would likely ask Merchan to nullify the verdict, though the legal experts said the judge almost certainly would not do so.

Instead, the probation office would put together a presentencing report for Merchan. As part of that process, Trump would be required to participate in an interview with a probation officer who would produce a biography of him of about five or six pages, legal experts said. Such documents are confidential, intended only for the judge and the lawyers.

Trump has called his prosecution politically motivated and denigrated Merchan, Bragg and others , leading the judge to fine him 10 times for a total of $10,000 during the trial for violating a partial gag order . How Trump would react to questions from a probation officer about the case could get him into more hot water with the court. Legal experts said his lawyers likely would advise him not to discuss the case.

Convicts are “expected to tell the truth. If they are convicted and then say, ‘No, it’s a lie, it didn’t happen,’ that will go back to the judge. And that’s not good,” said defense attorney Jeremy Saland, who also served as a Manhattan prosecutor.

The prosecution and Trump’s defense team also are expected to submit recommendations about the sentencing.

Because he was charged with nonviolent crimes, Trump is an unlikely candidate to be detained in prison as he awaits sentencing, said the experts, who added that it is also unlikely that Merchan would impose bail as a condition for his release.

Trump’s team has 30 days to file notice of appeal and six months to file the full appeal if he is convicted.

A key question is whether the court would agree to stay Trump’s sentence pending an appeal, a process that is likely to last well beyond the Nov. 5 presidential election.

Former prosecutors suggested such a scenario is plausible given that any punishment of Trump could be short enough in duration that the sentence would be fully carried out before a legal appeal is litigated.

The legal experts said Merchan could grant Trump a conditional discharge tied to the requirement that he not commit another legal offense.

Merchan also could impose a financial penalty or require him to do community service or undergo counseling, some legal experts said.

If the judge were to impose a more onerous penalty, such as home confinement, Trump could still find ways to continue campaigning, even if he were not on the road.

“He could be confined but go to Mar-a-Lago and hold a news conference every day, be on TV, hold rallies remotely,” Horwitz said. “There’s a lot he can do as a candidate while under home confinement.”

Trump New York hush money case

The jury in Donald Trump’s hush money trial has begun deliberating . Here’s what happens next and what Trump could face if he’s convicted .

Key witnesses: Several key witnesses, including Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels, have taken the stand. Here’s what Cohen said during his testimony . Read full transcripts from the trial .

Gag order: New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan has twice ruled that Trump violated his gag order , which prohibits him from commenting on jurors and witnesses in the case, among others. Here are all of the times Trump has violated the gag order .

The case: The investigation involves a $130,000 payment made to Daniels, an adult-film actress , during the 2016 presidential campaign. It’s one of many ongoing investigations involving Trump . Here are some of the key people in the case .

The charges: Trump is charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Falsifying business records is a felony in New York when there is an “intent to defraud” that includes an intent to “commit another crime or to aid or conceal” another crime. He has pleaded not guilty . Here’s what to know about the charges — and any potential sentence .

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In this criminal case, one of four filed against Trump, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg charged the former president with 34 counts of falsifying business records to hide a $130,000 ...
Cannabis use in a Canadian long-term care facility: a case study
The case study, conducted November 2021 to August 2022, included an environmental scan of existing policies and procedures related to cannabis use at the LTC facility, a quantitative survey of Healthcare Providers' (HCP) knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cannabis, and qualitative interviews with HCPs and administrators.
Michael Schumacher's family wins legal case against publisher over fake
The family of Michael Schumacher has won legal action against the publisher of a magazine which printed an artificial intelligence-generated interview with the Formula 1 great. German magazine Die Aktuelle promoted on its cover in April 2023 the words, "Michael Schumacher, the first interview!". It also wrote "it sounds deceptively real ...
Case Studies, Interviews and Vacation Scheme Resources
Competency Interview Questions Plan Use this fillable PDF to prepare for the different types of competency questions at law firm interviews and assessment centres. Written Case Study 1 - Legal Analysis . Based on a real written exercise, this mock case study will help you prepare for your law firm assessment centres.
What happens if Trump is convicted in the hush money trial
The case involves $130,000 in payments allegedly authorized by Trump to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election to keep her quiet about a sexual encounter she says ...