LAW-30114 - Module Specification
School of Law
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

The Contemporary Case Law Critique module offers a unique opportunity for students at Level 6 to undertake case law analysis, supported by independent research, in one of the core areas of legal study. Students may select a recent case to appraise from a wide range of options drawn from Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Contract Law, Torts, Crime, EU, Real Property and Trusts.

This module provides students with the opportunity to undertake a sustained piece of case law analysis focused on a recent judicial decision within one of the core areas of legal study. It will require students to engage with the facts of the case, its history, the context in which the case assumes relevance and the main legal issues raised. Based on independent research, students will produce an extended case commentary/critique which analyses critically the reasoning employed by the judge(s) and assesses the legal significance of the case by reference to its social or political impact.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Describe and communicate clearly and succinctly the reasoning in (and relevance of) a decided case: 1
Deploy advanced, independent research skills to locate, analyse and evaluate appropriate and relevant sources of law: 1
Analyse, evaluate, utilise and critique arguments advanced by judges and academic commentators: 1
Develop and articulate own view points, responses and arguments within a coherent and persuasive case analysis: 1
Evaluate critically the significance of a case law development by reference to its legal, social or political impact: 1

Study hours

Introductory lecture: 3 hours
Case commentary workshop: 2 hours
Writing Retreat: 4 hours
Online Q&A: 6 hours
Module pre-reading and online preparation: 12 hours
Independent study, research, further reading and assignment preparation: 123 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment