What is Public Legal Education

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Public legal education (PLE) is a broad term to cover education initiatives that aim to improve the public’s understanding of legal issues. It is not legal advice but rather aims to increase awareness of the law and how it impacts people’s lives, and to empower people with understanding and skills so that they can deal with their own legal issues or recognise when they need assistance.

PLE can be delivered in many formats: 

  • Workshops or lessons 
  • Short courses
  • Massive Open Online Course (MOOCs)
  • Podcasts / Videos 
  • Websites, articles, posters and leaflets 

The Law Society’s Statement of Strategy 2024-2028 recognises our commitment to PLE and aims to expand the Law Society’s Public Legal Education Programme to reach the widest possible audience of those interested in the law and beyond.