This course ('LJE') is designed to build on the learning outcomes of LAWS1201 Foundations of Law in two significant ways.  First, within the framework of the Australian legal system studied in LAWS1201, LJE examines

• the role of lawyers (who they are, what they do, how they do it)
• how people have access to lawyers - especially for court proceedings - and
• the ethical duties that lawyers are subject to.

Secondly, building on the skills component of LAWS1201, Lawyers, Justice and Ethics teaches further skills necessary for effective legal study such as writing and presentation.

On successfully completing LJE, students will be able to:

• describe the social, political and economic contexts of legal practice, litigation and statutory lawmaking
• demonstrate an understanding of the realities and diversity of legal practice
• critically assess legal processes and procedures, and identify the limitations on access to the legal system
• analyse the structure and workings of the legal profession from a range of perspectives
• explain the ethical dimensions of legal practice and the various forms of regulation of professional conduct
• write, and present publicly, so as to effectively convey their results of their reading, research, and critical analysis.

The assessment for Lawyers, Justice and Ethics will include skills-based exercises and an assignment during semester, and a final examination.  Details of the final assessment will be provided on the course home page by the first week of semester. 

The course is taught for three hours each week over a semester, in a mixture of lectures, seminars and tutorials.  There is a minimum attendance requirement for seminars and tutorials, and marks are deducted for failure to attend.

None

Law in Context

Students may find it easier to comprehend the concepts discussed in this course if the have successfully completed LAWS1201 Foundations of Law.  Examples and case studies in LJE will draw on material from Foundations of Law and Torts, and new material.

Please refer to LAWS1202 course home page shortly before semester begins.

Please refer to LAWS1202 course home page shortly before semester begins.

A reading guide will be available on the course web page shortly before semester begins.

Students must have access to and be able to use WebCT to participate in this course, and to complete compulsory assessment tasks.