Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The focus of the unit is the major steps in litigation. Using the Rules of the Supreme Court of Victoria, the chronology of a civil proceeding from the decision to sue until the matter is ready for trial is examined.

Objectives

Students who successfully complete the unit should

1. understand the sequence, steps and documentation of common law and commercial litigation;
2. be familiar with the major sources of law and research tools in the area of civil procedure;
3. be able to categorise an arising fact situation and apply the relevant substantive law to the applicable procedural step;
4. recognise and select the requisite procedural document;
5. be able to draft elementary pleadings;
6. be sensitised to the use and abuse of civil procedural devices, especially costs and delay; and
7. be aware of the theoretical underpinnings of our procedural system.

Assessment

Optional case-based assessment exercise (1500 words): 30% and examination (2 hours plus 30 minutes reading and noting time): 50% and class test: 20% OR Examination (2.5 hours plus 30 minutes reading and noting time): 80% and class test: 20%.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Greg Reinhardt (Summer Semester)
Dr Karinne Ludlow (First Semester)
Dr Tania Penovic (Second Semester)

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures per week.

Prerequisites

LAW1100 or LAW1101 and LAW1102 or LAW1104

Co-requisites

LAW2100 or LAW2101 and LAW2102; LAW2200 or LAW2201 and LAW2202