Postgraduate RMI-OJD110-2023

Introduction to the Australian Legal System and Legal Methods

Build your understanding of the Australian legal system. Study the constitutional framework, legislation and case-law (sources of law), statutory interpretation, institutions and processes, legal theory, research and analysis, and the law in practice

Duration

14 weeks

Study method

100% Online

Available loans

FEE-HELP

Assessments

Subjects may require attendance

Prior study

Not required

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2023

Subject details

What you'll learn

On successful completion of this degree you will be able to:

Demonstrate an integrated understanding of the sources of Australian law; how laws are made, developed and applied (both common law and statute); and the ways in which institutions administer those laws
Critically evaluate aspects of the Australian legal system and identify areas of law reform
Analyse and research problems relating to the doctrine of precedent and rules of statutory interpretation and make reasoned and appropriate choices amongst alternatives
Demonstrate cognitive and creative skills in approaching foundational legal issues and legal rules, and generate appropriate responses
Demonstrate the intellectual and practical skills needed to justify and interpret theoretical propositions, legal methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions and identify, research, evaluate and synthesise relevant factual, legal and policy issues using legislation, case law and secondary source materials
Demonstrate self-management skills in a professional context.

Topics covered

- Please refer to RMIT University’s Learning Management System - Canvas, for further details.

Entry requirements

In order to enrol in this subject, you must be accepted into one of the following degrees:

Core

RMI-LAW-MAS-2023

Additional requirements

No additional requirements

Description

This subject introduces you to the Australian legal system and a number of foundational legal skills. You will acquire knowledge and skills in the historical, doctrinal and philosophical perspectives that have influenced the development of law. You will critically compare and assess key theoretical positions that provide critique and commentary on the role and practice of law and the justice system. This course will primarily explore the Constitutional framework, legislation and case law, legal institutions and processes, legal theory, legal research, legal analysis and law in practice.

This subject runs over three weekends. It will be taught to Melbourne on-campus students on the Saturday of each weekend, and an equivalent online class will run for OUA students on the Sunday of each weekend. OUA students are welcome to attend the on-campus class with Melbourne students if they wish.

Assessments

The assessment alignment list below shows the assessment tasks against the learning outcomes they develop. Feedback will be provided throughout the semester in class and/or in online forums through individual and group feedback on practical exercises and by individual consultation

Assessment Task 1 - Linked CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 (20%)
Assessment Task 2 - Linked CLOs 1, 3, 5, 6 (30%)
Invigilated Exam - Linked CLOs 2, 4, 5, 6 (50%)

Textbooks

For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).

Related degrees

Postgraduate RMI-LAW-MAS-2023

Juris Doctor