Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives At the conclusion of the subject students should be able to demonstrate (1) a sound understanding of the institutions of the Australian legal system and their origins; (2) an awareness of some of the theories about the nature of law and a basic understanding of the relationship between law and other social institutions; (3) the ability to analyse the legal issues raised by a given fact situation; (4) the ability to locate efficiently the current law on an appropriate issue using the range of resources available in the Law Library; (5) the ability to analyse, synthesise and apply the law when located; (6) the ability to analyse a case so as to identify the principles for which it is authority and to apply those principles to a given fact situation; (7) the ability to interpret a piece of legislation in accordance with the law, principles and practices of statutory interpretation and to apply it to a given fact situation; (8) the ability to write on legal topics clearly, accurately and concisely; (9) the ability to appreciate and analyse the law from a variety of historical, social, political and philosophical perspectives; and (10) the ability to convey a legal argument or opinion orally with clarity and precision.
Synopsis Introduction to legal studies. Structure of the institutions of the Australian legal system and its processes. Historical, philosophical and social aspects of legal study. The role of law in society. Introduction to the methodology of legal research. Fundamental analytical and interpretative legal skills. Introduction to legal writing.
Assessment Legal research and writing program: 15% + Research assignment (2500 words): 25% + Final examination (3 hours plus 30 minutes reading time): 60%