LA2017 - Principles of Criminal Law A

The aim of this subject is to explore the Queensland criminal law and criminal justice system. Specifically the subject will focus on: principles of criminal responsibility; the aims of the criminal law; criminal procedure (including the classification of offences, jurisdiction, summary and indictable trials and the onus and standard of proof); homicide; causation; partial defences; non-fatal offences against the person and related defences. The subject provides students with the opportunity to: 1. Develop a detailed knowledge and understanding of the relevant statutory based offences, excuses and defences and the approach of the courts to their interpretation; 2. Develop a general knowledge and understanding of some of the theories and concepts that underpin the criminal law; 3. Develop legal problem solving skills through the research and application of primary and secondary criminal law resources.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe some of the theories and concepts that underpin the Queensland criminal law;
• Explain the principles and rules relevant to particular areas of the criminal law in Queensland, including homicide offences, non- fatal offences against the person and related defences and excuses;
• Identify criminal law issues in legal problems and explain, with reference to primary and secondary sources, the law that would apply in determining criminal responsibility;
• Explain and identify the relevant legal setting where the problem would be addressed and procedure that would be followed;
• Convey legal argument accurately and effectively in both written and oral form appropriate to the relevant context.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.