The law research unit is inter-disciplinary with four principal areas of enquiry:

• Legal Education
• Higher Education and the Law
• Sports Law
• The Criminal Justice System

Researchers are drawn from across the University to provide a rich diversity of talent and experience in these socio-legal areas.

Working in partnership with public and private sectors and governmental departments, the Unit offers a range of Research and Consultancy services designed to contribute to enhancing capability and improving competencies in a rapidly changing local, national and global environment. The research programme extends over a distinctive range of interdisciplinary enquiry, with an established research community embracing issues of both national and international concern.

In RAE 2001 the unit was submitted and graded 3a. In RAE 2008, a number of Unit members have been submitted within other RAE units of assessment. We enjoy national recognition, and some international recognition, for the range of research that we undertake. Our researchers have made a significant contribution to shaping research agenda and stimulating a broader debate, not only across the academic and professional divide, but also across disciplinary divides.

Over the last few years, particular attention has been given to a staffing policy which encourages both the appointment and retention of research active staff. The appointment policy of the Law School reflects the priority of research activity and output with research potential as one of the major appointment criteria. Staff who are less experienced in research are encouraged by the provision of both time and financial resource to make full use of the University wide staff development programme and to collaborate with more experienced colleagues.