The College of Law has announced the establishment of a centre for legal innovation, with Terri Mottershead as founding director.
Born out of a need to adapt to industry changes, the centre will function to research industry changes from a more practical and applied viewpoint rather than the theoretical approach of law schools.
“In terms of having those discussions or creating the opportunity for discussion and doing more research, then it kind of stands to reason that that would impact ultimately what the college offers in terms of education programs,” Mottershead told
Australasian Lawyer.
“Whether that’s practitioner focused or its law student focussed, in a way what we learn and the experience we share should ultimately flow back into what we are teaching.”
The college will collaborate with stakeholders, supporting the development of new short courses and programs aimed at equipping lawyers to capitalise on opportunities created by industry flux.
“What we are looking to do is really find a place and home where all of those changes can really be discussed and researched, and ultimately taught to the extent where there is that need for new skills, new knowledge, new competencies, whatever the case may be,” Mottershead said.
As principal of Mottershead Consulting, where she advises firms on innovation and change management, Mottershead is well placed for a role at the forefront of legal innovation. With more than 30 years’ experience in the legal industry, she has served on more than 50 boards and committees and has worked locally and internationally as a lawyer and law school academic.
“The college is at an exciting stage of development and growth. We see the Centre playing an important role in ensuring we remain in tune with the needs of the profession as it continues to evolve,” said CEO and principal Neville Carter.
“We are immensely pleased to have Terri joining the College in this important new position.”
