Law students with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia are classified as "neurodivergent" and may face unique challenges in their studies due to how these conditions affect their learning styles, particularly with reading comprehension, concentration, and social interaction, but when properly supported, they can also bring valuable strengths such as strong attention to detail, pattern recognition, and creative problem-solving.

If you are approved for tuition with a City Law Tutor Legal Skills Tutor through the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA), this means you will receive one hour of one-on-one support per week (or as agreed) from a qualified tutor who specializes in helping students develop the skills needed for legal studies. This support is tailored to your specific needs and is designed to help you overcome barriers related to your disability or condition.

What to Expect with a Legal Skills Tutor:

1. Personalised Support

   • The tutor will focus on your individual needs, whether that’s legal research, writing, exam preparation, or understanding complex legal concepts.

   • Sessions are flexible and can be adjusted based on your progress and upcoming coursework or exams.

2. Areas of Focus

   • Legal Research: Guidance on using legal databases (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis) and finding relevant case law, statutes, and academic commentary.

   • Legal Writing: Help with structuring essays, problem questions, and dissertations, as well as legal referencing (e.g., OSCOLA).

   • Exam Techniques: Strategies for answering problem questions, managing time during exams, and revising effectively.

   • Understanding Legal Concepts: Breaking down complex topics and providing clear explanations or examples.

   • Study Skills: Tips for time management, organization, and effective note-taking.

3. How to Make the Most of Your Session

   • Prepare in Advance: Identify specific topics or areas where you need help and share these with your tutor before the session.

   • Ask Questions: Use the time to clarify any doubts or difficulties you have with your coursework or readings.

   • Practice Skills: Work on practical exercises, such as drafting legal arguments or analysing case law, with feedback from your tutor.

   • Set Goals: Discuss your academic goals with your tutor so they can tailor the sessions to help you achieve them.

4. Frequency of Sessions

   • If you are approved for 1 hour per week, you will have regular, consistent support throughout the term or academic year.

   • If the 1 hour is allocated differently (e.g., biweekly or as a one-off session), ensure you use the time effectively to address your most pressing needs.

5. Funding and Arrangements

   • The cost of the tutor is covered by the DSA, so you do not need to pay out of pocket.

   • The tutor will be sourced through an approved DSA provider, and sessions may take place in person, online, or via phone, depending on your preferences and availability.

How to Access This Support

1. Apply for DSA: Submit your application to your funding body (e.g., Student Finance England) and provide evidence of your disability or condition.

2. Attend a Needs Assessment: Explain how a Legal Skills Tutor would help you with your law studies. The assessor will recommend the appropriate support, including the number of hours.

3. Arrange Tutoring: Once approved, your university’s disability support team or the DSA provider will help you find a suitable tutor and set up sessions.

Tips for Success

• Be proactive in communicating your needs to your tutor.

• Use the sessions to build confidence and independence in your legal studies.

• Combine the tutoring with other DSA support (e.g., specialist software or equipment) to maximize your academic potential.

If you feel that 1 hour of tuition is insufficient for your needs, you can discuss this during your needs assessment and request additional hours if justified. The assessor will consider your individual circumstances and make recommendations accordingly.