James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

LA4029:03

Comparative Law

Townsville, Cairns HECS Band 3

26 hours lectures, 12 hours tutorials. Semester 1.

Available to LLB students.

An examination of the history and development of the common law and civil law systems; the features and characteristics of the major legal families (common law, civil law and socialist law); the structures, concepts, procedures and the role of the legal profession in each; consideration of the manner in which the common law legal systems of Australia and Great Britain have diverged under the impetus of different circumstances and needs; systems of law which accommodate differing personal laws whether based on religion (Islam, Hinduism) or traditional laws or customs such as the ADAT of Indonesia and Malaysia.

Learning Objectives:

  1. to acquire a deeper understanding of the major legal systems of the world.

Assessment to be advised.