This module will provide the student with a knowledge and understanding of the English and Welsh Legal System, its sources, practices and procedures, and personnel. The influence of Europe and ongoing reform is interwoven through the course, which in general provides a sound starting point for any student considering studying any discipline in which elements of law may be found.

 Aims:

*To provide a knowledge and understanding of the English Legal System, its sources, practices and procedures, and personnel

*To discuss the impact of European Law and Human Rights legislation on English Law and the English Legal System

*To consider and assess recent and proposed reforms to English Law and the English Legal System

* 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

* 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 analyse accordingly using accepted legal authorities

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

* apply the law to given situations

 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

 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 assess the topic under discussion                                                

                                                           -   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 basic analysis where

                                                               relevant

* 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

 Assignment writing                

 The assignment titles must ensure that knowledge and understanding of the subject area is provided through an explanation of the topic set.

1. This explanation will be supported through references to accepted legal authorities.
2. The assignments will be worded to the effect that an analysis of the topic is communicated effectively, demonstarting skills of evaluation.
3. The assignments 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 an analysis 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)