Law student Tayne Redman on improving access to justice through industry innovation

But there were a number of other factors that also played into Tayne Redman’s decision to pursue a career in law.

“I would be lying if I didn’t mention the TV Series, Suits, in having a little bit of influence.”

All jokes aside, when reflecting seriously on his career choice and the reasons behind it, Tayne sought to understand the application of law in society and how it aided in complex problem solving.

“Since beginning Law, and pursuing a career as a Lawyer, I have come to understand the protections, benefits and entitlements that the law can and should provide. The law applies to everything, and this is an amazing resource to utilise.”

Currently undertaking a Master of Laws in the ‘Access to Justice’ specialisation at the University of Adelaide, Tayne was initially drawn to the degree due to its large practical component and social justice themes.

“The Access to Justice specialisation instantly had my attention. Being able to work part-time as a lawyer at The Accessible Justice Project and also researching on my off-days was very appealing.”

A different experience to his undergraduate studies in Law and Commerce, postgraduate studies have exposed Tayne to a larger array of legal theory and jurisprudence, as well as exploring traditional legal ideas in depth.

“Although many legal ideas are decades or centuries old, it has been interesting and stimulating to apply these ideas to 21st-century issues, such as military laws in space or artificial intelligence in legal practice.”

The ability to debate complex ideas with teaching staff and fellow peers has been a highlight for Tayne in his studies, allowing him to confront his own biases and philosophical approaches to law. This has been facilitated by the dedicated staff at the Adelaide Law School, another drawcard for Tayne when choosing where to continue his studies.

 “The University of Adelaide’s teaching staff includes names that you become familiar with from reading law journals, so having these professionals face-to-face each week is excellent.”

Holding the legal profession in the highest regard, Tayne has developed a keen understanding of the mechanics of law and its application in society. It is this respect for the law which has opened Tayne’s eyes to the vast array of people in the community who do not have access to legal services due to high costs and perceived inaccessibility. Through the Master of Laws ‘Access to Justice’ specialisation, Tayne saw an opportunity to make an impact.

 “I chose a Master of Laws to address these contemporary issues of justice access by bolstering my skills and positively influencing change through my research.”Tayne Redman

As part of the ‘Access to Justice’ specialisation, Tayne has had the opportunity to give back to the community, whilst gaining critical practical experience by participating in a joint initiative created by LK and the University of Adelaide – The Accessible Justice Project. The Accessible Justice Project sees students practise law in a ‘low bono’ legal practice, whilst receiving support from senior LK lawyers, and getting paid for their services. The practice has been created to provide affordable legal advice to members of the community who don’t qualify for publicly funded legal assistance, but also can’t afford the ongoing costs of a private lawyer; a group often under-supported in our justice system.

As part of this project, Tayne is preparing a dissertation as a culmination of his studies, and this would not be possible without the guidance and support he received from the mentors at The Accessible Justice Project.

 “The Accessible Justice Project, under the supervision of senior staff from LK, has benefitted all aspects of my career and brought new experiences in navigating the judicial system and managing the unpredictable nature of litigation.”

Reflecting on what has been the most rewarding part of his involvement in The Accessible Justice Project, Tayne speaks of the social impact of his legal work.

“It’s rewarding seeing my clients afforded justice where they otherwise would have had no alternative.”

A bright future lies ahead for a passionate professional such as Tayne, who seeks to continue his career in litigation whilst making an impact on the legal profession for social good.

“I will ensure that I remain devoted to justice access and I hope my contributions bring positive change to the profession.”

The Master of Laws program, in particular the Access to Justice specialisation, gives aspiring legal professionals the opportunity to gain practical skills and make an impact in the community. With the chance to be mentored by senior staff from leading law firm LK through The Accessible Justice Project, graduates are set up with the skills and networks necessary for a successful career in law and beyond. For more information, please visit the Master of Laws ‘Access to Justice’ website or read further about the specialisation in our Master of Laws ‘Access to Justice’ article.