Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Criminal law has a critical and high profile role in modern society. This module addresses basic questions regarding its scope and the conditions under which it is appropriate to impose criminal liability. Should a person who carelessly sets fire to a building be guilty of arson? Should a person who kills following years of domestic abuse or whilst extremely drunk be guilty of murder or manslaughter? To what extent should people be permitted to use force in defence of themselves or property? The principles governing the courts' approach to questions such as these are contested and shaped by a range of political, social and theoretical considerations. This module explores these issues in order to provide a critical analysis of a key area of law.
Aims
To introduce students to the role of criminal law in modern societyTo locate criminal law within its social and political contextTo develop students' skills in analysing problems and critically evaluating the criminal lawTo develop students' skills in reviewing theoretical issues surrounding the criminal law
Intended Learning Outcomes
demonstrate an ability to access, to review and to critically appraise basic concepts in criminal law through the use of cases, statutes and theoretical sources: 1demonstrate an ability to answer criminal law problem and/or theoretical questions by appropriate use of relevant legal sources: 1demonstrate the development of a critical appreciation of criminal law doctrinal issues in their theoretical, social and political context: 1
Lectures - 23 hoursTutorials - 12 hours (6 x 2)Plenaries - 6 hours (6 x 1)Revision session - 2 hoursWorkshop - 2 hoursPreparation for lectures and tutorials 45Further reading and assessment preparation 60
Description of Module Assessment
1: Assignment weighted 100%2,500-word limit assignmentAssignment of 2,500-word limit to answer in Part A one problem question (no choice available), and in Part B one theory question (from a choice of three). The two parts are equally weighted.