LAWS6105
10 units
6000 level
Course handbook
Description
This course deals with the role of experts in legal proceedings. It considers the ways in which judges determine the admission, use and evaluation of expert evidence, and the ethical and professional responsibilities of experts in forming expert opinions and views. The course will cover the role of experts in civil, criminal, family law, coronial and forensic jurisdictions in domestic and international courts and tribunals and in similar forums. Examples will be provided of expert evidence in cases of homicide, child welfare and sexual assault. The course has a practical focus and incorporates simulated and clinical experiences.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Newcastle City Precinct
- Summer 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate specialised knowledge and skills necessary to comply with expert rules and principles and effectively deal with experts.
2. Integrate and analyse the theory and practice of expert evidence in legal proceedings.
3. Critically evaluate and reflect on the ethical and professional responsibilities of experts and the principles which apply to them when dealing with courts and tribunals and in legal proceedings
Content
The content in this course includes the following topics:
- Principles and rules regarding the use of expert opinion evidence in civil, criminal, family law, forensic and coronial proceedings in Australia and comparative jurisdictions.
- The preparation and presentation of expert opinions including the applicable codes of conduct.
- The roles of experts in drafting reports and forming expert opinions.
- The roles of experts in the giving of evidence in courts and tribunals.
- Current developments, challenges and issues regarding the use of expert opinion evidence in legal proceedings.
- Interdisciplinary approaches to the role of expert evidence in legal proceedings.
Assessment items
Written Assignment: Research assignment
Participation: Seminar participation including clinical exercises
Presentation: Seminar presentation
Contact hours
Summer 1 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct
Seminar-1
- Face to Face On Campus 36 hour(s) per term
- The course may be delivered wholly in intensive mode; or in an equivalent combination of intensive and on-line delivery
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.