Law / Legal Studies

Course summary

Study the law of negligence, homicide and property offences. How do the courts decide who should be punished? How does the English legal system deal with offenders? These and other questions about our law are asked during the course. If you are interested in criminal and civil law, this course could be for you. You will learn how the law is applied through various case studies. The course provides an introduction to law, a taster for study at degree level and will enable you to explore an exciting and challenging new subject. You will develop research, communication, presentation, decision making and critical thinking skills valued by universities and employers. There are two units studied in each year of the course. Year 1 Unit 1: Dispute Solving in English Law Students explore how civil disputes are resolved, both in the courts and by alternative means. They will examine precedent and its application in the law of negligence. Unit 2: Investigating Aspects of Criminal Law and the Legal System Students research how laws are made and interpreted, who advises and decides on the outcome of criminal cases and the punishments that can be imposed if laws are broken. They will then present advice to clients on non-fatal offence case studies. Year 2 Unit 3: Applying the Law Students examine the law related to specific crimes, including homicide and offences against property. They will explore the police procedures for dealing with such offences. Unit 4: Aspects of Family Law Learners explore the requirements of a valid marriage and civil partnership, the laws governing the breakdown of relationships, as well as how disputes over children are resolved by the courts.