Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

This unit gives students an understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of tort law and of the policies underlying them. It will focus on negligence, but also examine a representative range of other civil wrongs such as intentional torts to the person, trespass to land and nuisance. The unit will also examine how the Wrongs Act 1958 (Vic) and other legislation have shaped the modern law of torts and how the law of torts relates to neighbouring areas. Students will become familiar with the role of torts law in compensating accident victims, the effect of civil liability law reform and other contemporary policy issues in the law of torts.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will have:

1. acquired the ability to analyse a factual situation and accurately identify tortious rights and obligations
2. acquired the ability to identify remedies available under relevant legislation
3. acquired some familiarity with the policies underlying tort law and the ability to recognise the likely future development of the law in this area
4. further developed skills in caselaw analysis and statutory interpretation.

Assessment

Memorandum of Advice: 30%
Final examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Normann Witzleb (Trimester 1)
Dr Joanna Kyriakakis (Trimester 2)
Mr Pat Zappia (Trimester 3)

Contact hours

2 hours per week x 12 weeks

Prerequisites

LAW7212 or LAW7470

Prohibitions

LAW2200