Foundations of Law
Description
Law, the legal system, and political system impact our daily lives. This is particularly so for those engaged in business, commerce, public service and professions. The course introduces a broad framework of Australia's legal and political system and examines the sources of law, important provisions of the state and federal constitutions, court hierarchy and jurisdiction, precedent, civil liability, aspects of professional negligence and introduces consumer protection law, business organisations, contract and agency. It establishes a solid legal knowledge foundation for business and commerce and contributes to the enhancement of student attributes in analysis and problem solving.
Availability
Callaghan
- Semester 1 - 2015
- Semester 2 - 2015
UoN Singapore
- Trimester 3 - 2015 (Singapore)
Ourimbah
- Semester 2 - 2015
Learning Outcomes
1. Identify and explain the principal features of the Australian Legal System;
2. Identify and manage the key legal risks associated with setting up and running a business;
3. Outline the requirements for creating and enforcing a contract;
4. Apply problem solving methods introduced in tutorials to identify, analyse and explain areas of law covered during the course.
Content
Topics to be covered are:
- An examination of what is "law", including such concepts as the Rule of Law, and the 'doctrine of separation of Powers'.
- The key features of Australia's legal system, looking at the roles and functions of the legislature, the executive and the judiciary, the reception of English laws and the creation and evolution of the Australian Commonwealth.
- The key legal issues and risks to be addresses when setting up a business
- An introduction to the law of torts, with a focus on the law of negligence and negligent misstatement
- An overview of the key areas of Australian intellectual property law
- An introduction to the common law rules for creating and enforcing a contract
- An overview of consumer protection law with a focus on the general protections under the Australian Consumer Law
- An introduction to the law of agency and the laws impacting on the employment relationship.
Assessment Items
Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: In-class Multiple Choice Tests
Formal Examination: Final Exam
Contact Hours
UoN Singapore
Lecture
Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Tutorial
Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per Week for Full Term