Foundations of Law and Justice (11251.2)

This unit does two things. It examines law as a system, with particular relevance to Australia. We cover the concept of law itself; the common law tradition; the Australian Constitution; other sources of law; the reception of English law in Australia, including the ramifications of this for First Nations Australians then and now; the practice of law; and critical perspectives on the law. The unit also enhances students' skills as budding law and justice practitioners. It covers how to find the law, including its various sources; legal problem solving; statutory interpretation; the arguing of law; and writing legal materials.

Learning outcomes

After successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Identify the personal skills, capabilities and knowledge necessary to meet the work standards expected by law and justice professionals in the workplace;
2. Explain and analyse the historical foundations and contemporary roles of Australian legal systems and institutions, including in various social and cultural contexts;
3. Develop an understanding for First Nations realities, including those that arise through the legal system, and develop cultural competence;
4. Identify, research, interpret and apply sources of law, including cases and legislation, as well as secondary sources;
5. Undertake legal reasoning to devise solutions to legal problems; and
6. Communicate the findings of legal research and analysis, in writing and orally, for a range of audiences and purposes.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - take pride in their professional and personal integrity
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
1. UC graduates are professional - work collaboratively as part of a team, negotiate, and resolve conflict
2. UC graduates are global citizens - adopt an informed and balanced approach across professional and international boundaries
2. UC graduates are global citizens - understand issues in their profession from the perspective of other cultures
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - be self-aware

Prerequisites

None.

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

11431 Foundations of Law and Justice G

Equivalent units

6601 Legal Methods and Skills 6602 Legal Systems

Assumed knowledge

None.