James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

LA2017 - Principles of Criminal Law A

Subject Description

The aim of this subject is to explore the Queensland criminal law and criminal justice system. Specifically the subject will focus on: principles of criminal responsibility; the aims of the criminal law; criminal procedure (including the classification of offences, jurisdiction, summary and indictable trials and the onus and standard of proof); homicide; causation; partial defences; non-fatal offences against the person and related defences. The subject provides students with the opportunity to: 1. Develop a detailed knowledge and understanding of the relevant statutory based offences, excuses and defences and the approach of the courts to their interpretation; 2. Develop a general knowledge and understanding of some of the theories and concepts that underpin the criminal law; 3. Develop legal problem solving skills through the research and application of primary and secondary criminal law resources.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the theories and concepts that underpin the Queensland criminal law
• Identify criminal law issues in legal problems and explain, in both written and oral form with reference to primary and secondary sources, the law that would apply in determining criminal responsibility
• Identify the relevant legal setting where the problem would be addressed and procedure that would be followed
• Explain the principles and rules relevant to particular areas of the criminal law in Queensland, including homicide offences, non-fatal offences against the person and related defences and excuses

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (60%) - Individual
• Written > Problem task - (40%) - Individual

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.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  LA1005

Availabilities