Subject details

Upon successful completion of this subject you will be able to:

  1. demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the legal framework within which the torts liability system operates (including both common law and statutory law)
  2. analyse and research complex problems relating to tort law and make reasoned and appropriate choices amongst alternatives
  3. demonstrate sophisticated cognitive and creative skills in approaching legal issues relating to tort law and generate appropriate responses
  4. show effective, appropriate and persuasive collaboration and communication skills for legal and non-legal audiences through engagement with legal interviewing and legal problem solving in a law firm simulation.
    • Introduction and Battery
    • Assault and False Imprisonment
    • Trespass to Land and Nuisance
    • Trespass to Goods and Defences to Intentional Torts
    • Defamation and Damages
    • Negligence: Duty of Care
    • Negligence: Breach of Duty
    • Negligence in Particular Situations
    • Negligence: Causation
    • Negligence: Defences
    • Remedies and Vicarious / Concurrent Liability

  • Study resources

    • Instructional methods

      • Discussion forum/Discussion Board

    • Online materials

      • Audio-Video streaming

You are recommended to have completed the following subjects(s) or have equivalent knowledge before starting this subject:

Special requirements

No special requirements

This subject aims to provide students with an understanding of the legal environment and compensation framework underpinning redress for damage or injury to one’s person, security or property in a common law system. It includes an exploration of the elements of a number of recognised torts including intentional torts; trespass to the person, land and goods and unintentional torts in particular negligence. The subject assists with the development of students legal interviewing and legal problem solving skills. Students work in groups and engage in a legal firm simulation.

A key activity you will undertake as students of Torts is a “PAJD” (Practice Aspects in the Juris Doctor) session on a Saturday in the middle of semester. Dates will be advised at the beginning of the Semester. This involves a ‘practical law firm experience’ session of approximately 1 hour, and is a component of the subject which will require you to either undertake the assessment online through video technology, or attend at RMIT Melbourne (City Campus) Building 13 on that day.
Please note that attendance on campus is optional, but you will need to let the course convener know in advance by the stipulated date.

  • Memo of Advice (25%)
  • Practice Aspects (25%)
  • Open Book Invigilated Exam (50%)

Textbook information is pending.

Related degrees

postgraduate RMI-LAW-MAS-2019

Juris Doctor