THE T-SHAPED LAWYER AND BEYOND

Which role, competences, and ethical mind-set should legal professionals have in order to contribute meaningfully to the challenges of contemporary societies? How should universities prepare students for their future roles as lawyers, judges, or lega
l scholars?

In this inaugural lecture, Elaine Mak traces the emergence of the image of the T-shaped lawyer, which has become prominent in current debates in law schools and legal practice. She demonstrates how organisational demands - relati
ng to new public management - and societal demands - relating to digitalisation and globalisation - have prompted the emphasis on technological awareness, interdisciplinary skills, and social responsiveness of legal professionals. Based on a critical
analysis, Mak argues that contemporary legal education should encompass three main elements: space for differentiation (societies need generalists, specialists, and interdisciplinary legal professionals); ''Bildung'' to develop a perceptive and crit
ical view on the legal professional''s role; and training aimed at handling professional ethical dilemmas.

This lecture is relevant for legal professionals, students, university teachers and managers, and a broader audience interested in dev
elopments regarding professionalism and higher education.