James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

LA4010 - Advanced Criminal Law

Subject Description

This subject is designed for students seeking a deep understanding of the limitations of the criminal law as a form of social control and is particularly suited for students intending to practise in the field of criminal law. It explores theoretical and practical aspects of the criminal law and the criminal justice system and builds on the foundations laid in second year Criminal Law subject. Specific issues will include some of the following: Police powers and responsibilities; the criminal law reform agenda; fundamental concepts in the criminal law; indigenous issues relating to criminal law; mental condition defences in the criminal law; criminal procedure. The subject will be taught on a seminar basis and there is a heavy emphasis on self-directed student learning.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe some of the theories and concepts that underpin the criminal law and explain how those theories and concepts are given effect in different jurisdictions
• Critically analyse the criminal law and make recommendations for law reform
• Describe and critically analyse police powers
• Conduct advanced legal research
• Convey legal argument accurately and effectively in both written and oral form appropriate to the relevant context

Subject Assessment

• Invigilated > End of semester exam - (40%)
• Invigilated > Presentations - (10%)
• Non-Invigilated > Assignments - (50%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Availabilities