FOR5004 - Nursing and the criminal justice system

Leader: Dr Angela Williams

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Off-campus)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

The unit covers four themes: Introduction to the Criminal Justice System and Sexual Offences; Medicolegal Documentation; Rules of Evidence; Giving Evidence and Advocacy Techniques.
Designed to give nursing students knowledge of the legal system (in particular the criminal justice system), the unit examines the hierarchy of the legal system and the courts. The importance of providing objective and informative opinion evidence to the court and an understanding of the boundaries of being an expert witness is also covered. The moot court allows students to practice skills and gain confidence in the plan of the courtroom and a site visit demonstrates and the process and procedures of a trial.

Objectives

Upon completion of this unit the student will be able to:

1. Understand the basics of the legal system and be able to locate appropriate law in relation to their professional duties;
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the general principles of the laws of evidence, in particular the rules around opinion evidence;
3. Understand the role of the expert witness;
4. Prepare a medicolegal report; and
5. Utilize techniques necessary for managing evidence in chief, cross examination and re examination.

Assessment

Workbook Activities (30%)
Case Studies (30%)
Residential participation and Moot Court (10%)
Assignment (10%)