Learned in the Law The Auckland Law School 1883–2008

Drawing on university, faculty, and departmental records as well as personal interviews, this study chronicles the history behind the Auckland Law School. From its modest beginnings in 1883, this account shows how the institution, the largest in New Zealand, has developed into one of the leading law schools in the Southern Hemisphere and how it has acquired an international reputation. Documenting the turmoil encountered along the way, as well as numerous anecdotes and memorable incidents, this overview includes topics such as the introduction of full-time study, the Deanship, and whether the Law School should have to take over the teaching of nonlawyers. Recounted with clarity and dry humor, alumni of the Law School and others in the legal profession will enjoy this engaging account of a faculty that has held an important place in the training of New Zealand's legal minds for more than a century.

Brian Coote is a former professor and dean of the Law School at the University of Auckland. He is the author of Exception Clauses. He was made Commander of the British Empire in the 1995 New Year Honors list in recognition of his services to legal education. Bernard Brown is a former associate professor at the University of Auckland. He is the author of several books of poetry and on law. Peter Watts is a professor of the law faculty at the University of Auckland. He is the editor of Bowsted on Agency. Sean Kinsler is a freelance researcher and a recent graduate of the University of Auckland.