Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
23/07/2026 2:30 AM AWST
23/07/2026 2:30 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Produce complex legal documents
Produce complex legal documents
Unit of competency
National Code
BSBLEG418A
BSBLEG418A
State Code
WB906
WB906
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
11/11/2010
Field of Education
091103 - Legal Studies
Original Release Date
11/11/2010
Nominal Hours
80
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to produce complex legal documents using a range of advanced functions within at least one software package and integrating functions from at least two software packages.A range of legislation, rules, regulations and codes of practice may apply to this unit at the time of endorsement, depending on job roles and jurisdictions.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Establish document design and structure
- 1.1. Identify requirements of task in line with instructions
- 1.2. Select software appropriate to task
- 1.3. Determine document design and structure
- 1.4. Design and structure document to meet legislative requirements
- 1.5. Review and update existing precedent documents
2. Develop precedents for document design
- 2.1. Develop and use precedents to ensure consistency of design and layout
- 2.2. Evaluate and amend templates to ensure document requirements can be met
- 2.3. Recommend improvements to design and/or structure of existing documents and facilitate a review process of suggested improvements
3. Prepare to produce documents
- 3.1. Prepare documents using appropriate and available precedent documents according to organisation's policies and procedures
- 3.2. Enter and edit relevant data
- 3.3. Use a range of advanced software functions to ensure accurate completion of task
- 3.4. Check documents for spelling, grammar, numeric data and layout
- 3.5. Proofread documents for accuracy of content and consistency of layout and style
- 3.6. Make modifications to meet required specifications
- 3.7. Manage any difficulties to produce completed documents within agreed timelines
4. Prepare to print documents
- 4.1. Print documents as required
- 4.2. Arrange review of documents with designated person
- 4.3. Undertake final printing of documents
5. Save file and exit system
- 5.1. Save and store document in appropriate directory or folder
- 5.2. Close file and exit application programs without loss of data
- 5.3. Make back-up copies of file according to specified procedures
- 5.4. File and store discs/data according to organisation's policies and procedures
RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Software packages may include:
database
document management software
graphics
page layout software
spreadsheet
word processing.
Documents may include:
contracts
costings
court documents for filing in a variety of courts and tribunals
deeds and agreements
in-house newsletters
precedents used in organisation
promotional brochures
research reports
wills.
Document design and structure may include:
advanced software functions
constraints regarding organisation's style and letterhead
instructions for word processing operator
legislated document layout guidelines
links to existing information
precedents' manuals
range of complex software supporting the production of precedents.
Existing precedent documents may include:
business structure documents
conveyancing documents
documents used in civil proceedings
documents used in criminal proceedings
family law documents
generic correspondence
wills and probate documents.
Organisation's policies and procedures may include:
accessing files
authorising creation of new legal precedents
authorising precedent changes
back-up procedures
file maintenance
information sources
information specific to the organisation
initiation of files
office procedural manuals
use of precedent and file naming conventions of document
security, confidentiality and privacy procedures
verifying and authorising information.
Difficulties needing management may include:
alterations to instructions
client needs
lack of available or suitable resources
problems encountered when liaising with others
technical difficulties.
Designated person may include:
barrister
lawyer
legal practice manager
paralegal
partner
supervisor.
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Software packages may include:
database
document management software
graphics
page layout software
spreadsheet
word processing.
Documents may include:
contracts
costings
court documents for filing in a variety of courts and tribunals
deeds and agreements
in-house newsletters
precedents used in organisation
promotional brochures
research reports
wills.
Document design and structure may include:
advanced software functions
constraints regarding organisation's style and letterhead
instructions for word processing operator
legislated document layout guidelines
links to existing information
precedents' manuals
range of complex software supporting the production of precedents.
Existing precedent documents may include:
business structure documents
conveyancing documents
documents used in civil proceedings
documents used in criminal proceedings
family law documents
generic correspondence
wills and probate documents.
Organisation's policies and procedures may include:
accessing files
authorising creation of new legal precedents
authorising precedent changes
back-up procedures
file maintenance
information sources
information specific to the organisation
initiation of files
office procedural manuals
use of precedent and file naming conventions of document
security, confidentiality and privacy procedures
verifying and authorising information.
Difficulties needing management may include:
alterations to instructions
client needs
lack of available or suitable resources
problems encountered when liaising with others
technical difficulties.
Designated person may include:
barrister
lawyer
legal practice manager
paralegal
partner
supervisor.
EVIDENCE GUIDE
The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Evidence of the ability to:
ensure that confidentiality and security of information are maintained
produce and present accurate documents that conform to specified standards within agreed timelines
use advanced functions of at least one software package or integrate functions of at least two software packages, in document production
apply knowledge of relevant legislation, rules, regulations, codes of practice and research resources.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment must ensure access to:
the internet
an actual workplace or simulated environment
workplace manuals and reference materials, such as company policies, procedural manuals, checklists, sources of documentation and sample forms
background information on courts, their jurisdiction and behavioural requirements
appropriate technology, such as computers with relevant software
appropriate texts and people with expert knowledge, such as legal practitioners
appropriate legislation and regulations relevant to legal context.
Method of assessment
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of precedents and documents created from precedents
class assessment to produce and/or amend precedents in a given timeframe
third-party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate where appropriate
oral or written questioning to assess knowledge of accepted codes of practice relevant to the workplace
completed precedent/documents within given timeframes.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.
The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Evidence of the ability to:
ensure that confidentiality and security of information are maintained
produce and present accurate documents that conform to specified standards within agreed timelines
use advanced functions of at least one software package or integrate functions of at least two software packages, in document production
apply knowledge of relevant legislation, rules, regulations, codes of practice and research resources.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment must ensure access to:
the internet
an actual workplace or simulated environment
workplace manuals and reference materials, such as company policies, procedural manuals, checklists, sources of documentation and sample forms
background information on courts, their jurisdiction and behavioural requirements
appropriate technology, such as computers with relevant software
appropriate texts and people with expert knowledge, such as legal practitioners
appropriate legislation and regulations relevant to legal context.
Method of assessment
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of precedents and documents created from precedents
class assessment to produce and/or amend precedents in a given timeframe
third-party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate where appropriate
oral or written questioning to assess knowledge of accepted codes of practice relevant to the workplace
completed precedent/documents within given timeframes.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| D0817 | BSBLEG401A | Prepare and produce complex legal documents | Unit of competency |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUI27 | BSBLEG418 | Produce complex legal documents | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| W899 | BSB40110 | Certificate IV in Legal Services | Qualification |