Course overview
The aim of this course is to develop a sophisticated level of understanding of the legal dimension of a problem, to be selected according to the historical, topical, or thematic importance of the issue, and the availability and expertise of particular staff. The specific content of the course is variable. Examples of potential areas of law would include particular aspects of Environmental Law, such as the Emissions Trading Scheme; of Property Law, such as the granting of gene patents; or Criminal Law, such as laws relating to DNA testing, or intelligence gathering and control orders; or Commercial Law, such as developments in regulatory theory and practice. The course is not confined to recent developments, but would extend to detailed analysis of major milestone cases or legal innovations, for example, the 1992 decision of the High Court of Australia in Mabo, or the 1999 Wakim decision relating to cross-vesting. The content may also include detailed focus upon the seminal overseas decisions such as Roe v Wade. The focus upon a particular issue is designed to facilitate the detailed examination of the social, political and legal context within which the legal climax (new legislation or a superior court decision) occurs.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain and analyse an advanced and specialist area of law
- Apply relevant knowledge and skills to specific Law situations or Law research projects
- Analyse and evaluate legal principles and policies arising in a specialist area of law