This course covers equity and the common law, the effect of European Community law on the English legal system, judicial precedent, statutory interpretation, the jury system, solicitors and barristers, tribunals, law centres and legal aid. METHODS OF TEACHING: 2-hour lectures. METHODS OF ASSESSMENT: Continuous assessment based on class participation, class test (open book) and assignment.

Knowledge and Understanding:

* describe and explain the main points that relate to the topics within the syllabus

* ask relevant questions relating to topics studied

* answer questions posed to a satisfactory level

* contribute effectively in a group discussion on the topics studied

Lectures                                           

• to explain the main points relating to the subject matter to be studied 

Question and answer sessions          

• to ensure knowledge and understanding (it is anticipated that these sessions will be both tutor-  and student- led)

 Discussion                                     

• to enhance the development of knowledge and understanding by exploring  the main points in more depth                                                    
• to communicate/argue relevant points

 Research

• to collate information from a variety of sources relevant to the identified topic and convey findings in a clear writing style illustrating knowledge and understanding

Intellectual Skills:

* relate provided material and material individually researched to the topics studied

* show an understanding of the topics through explanations in both written and oral form

* consider arguments/opinions and show an understanding and knowledge of relevant  legal authorities

* develop own learning through reading and research of topics under study

* be aware of how and why the particular cases and legislation are used in given topics

 Discipline Specific (including practical) Skills:

 * consider legal problems and apply relevant law to given situations

* maintain knowledge and understanding through reading information on current debates/reforms

 Transferable Skills:

* communicate effectively in both written and oral forms

* work effectively on an individual and group basis

* make notes from class lectures and other sources

* research and collate data from a variety of sources

The assessments set will be based on topics listed under ’Aims’ and in the syllabus.

Assignment Writing

1. The assignment must ensure that knowledge and understanding of the subject area is provided through an explanation of the topic set.
2. This explanation will be supported through references to accepted legal authorities.
3. The assignment will be worded to the effect that a knowledge and understanding of the topic is communicated effectively.
4. The assignment  will be marked according to the mark scheme and university guidelines.

 Class test 

The class test will show i, ii and iv above, and will be worded to the effect that knowledge and understanding of the topic is communicated effectively under time constraint. 

It is anticipated that ongoing assessment of the students’ progress will occur through the natural questioning that arises by both students and tutor, and through the discussions.  Students are encouraged to raise questions or points of difficulty during lectures; each lesson commences with a recap through questioning of the previous and if relevant illustration of links between topics.

The court system of England and Wales

Sources of English and Welsh Law   -   historical,  legislation, statutory interpretation, case law

 The impact of European Law and the Convention of Human Rights 

The role and work of legal professionals 

The role and work of lay personnel

 Law reform (ongoing throughout course)