Law students learn about murder investigation

A ‘Murder Investigations and Legal Careers’ half-day included a presentation by key speaker, Dave Chave, who as a former Detective Sergeant MCIT (Major Crime Investigation Team), has been involved in a number of murder investigations during a successful 30 year police career. The students also enjoyed a talk about becoming a legal executive from ex-Collyer’s student, Hannah Sills.

Dave Chave’s 2 hour talk was based on a real murder case and he expertly took students through the different stages of the investigation, while explaining the roles of the multitude of different agencies involved. Dave also linked the talk to careers in the police force.

Head of Law at Collyer’s, Helen Mayer-Dean, was full of praise for the session: “Dave really captivated our students and provided an invaluable and unique insight into the work behind a murder investigation. The students thoroughly enjoyed learning about how a real-life case is worked through to a logical conclusion. It really highlighted the professional work of the police and legal teams involved and linked superbly to our students’ A2 Law studies”.

Dave Chave said: “I have been so fortunate to have experienced such a varied and interesting career, and consider it an honour to have been provided this opportunity to share my passion and hopefully enthuse a new generation towards careers within law and law enforcement.”

Ex-Collyer’s student, Hannah Sills, who won the 2012 Law prize at Collyer’s was also on hand to talk about training to become a legal executive. She is doing the ILEX course at the college and also works for Goodhand and Forsyth in Redhill, a leading local firm of solicitors.

Hannah Sills said: “I would definitely recommend looking at the option of studying the ILEX course while working. I have really enjoyed my first year as you get great hands-on experience”.

The students, who comprised those studying criminal law or with an interest in pursuing criminal justice, also enjoyed a ‘Legal Careers’ display and were invited to ask questions after the talks.

Principal Dr Jackie Johnston said: “Thank-you so much to Dave Chave and Hannah Sills for taking time out from extremely busy schedules to provide such an incredible opportunity for our students to learn about legal careers.”