LEGL1001Foundations of Law

Course handbook

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.

Availability2017 Course Timetables

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Identify and explain the principal features of the Australian Legal System;

2. Identify the key legal risks associated with setting up and running a business and explain legal and business strategies used to control those risks;

3. Outline the main legal requirements for creating and enforcing a contract;

4. Apply problem solving methods to identify, analyse and explain areas of law covered during the course.

Content

Topics to be covered are:

1. An examination of what is "law", including such concepts as the Rule of Law, and the 'Doctrine of Separation of Powers'.
2. 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.
3. The key legal issues and risks to be addressed when setting up a business
4. An introduction to the law of torts, with a focus on the law of negligence and negligent misstatement
5. An introduction to the common law rules for creating and enforcing a contract
6. An overview of consumer protection law with a focus on the general protections under the Australian Consumer Law
7. An introduction to the law of agency and the laws impacting on the employment relationship.

Assessment items

Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Seminar based Multiple Choice Tests

Written Assignment: Individual IRAC Task

Formal Examination: Final examination

Contact hours

Callaghan, Ourimbah, Newcastle City Precinct and PSB Singapore