Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit examines and analyses selected aspects of the criminal process. It covers preliminary steps in the criminal legal system including the law on arrest, search and seizure, bail applications and disclosure obligations. It examines summary hearings of simple offences and indictable offences triable summarily, and the issues associated with trials of indictable offences, including jury selection, the role of counsel, the trial judge and the DPP. It will also interrogate the post-trial process including sentencing options and principles, and appeals against conviction and/or sentence.

The unit will also consider a number of selected topics. These will vary from year to year to reflect contemporary issues and developments and are likely to include topics such as:

- Analysis of examples of miscarriage of justice;

- Indigenous perspectives on the criminal justice system;

- The experience of children in the criminal justice system;

- Corporate crime

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) evaluate the different stages of the criminal process and their respective functions; and the key legislation, case law and rules associated with criminal procedure.; (2) apply the legislation, case law and aspects of professional judgment associated with the different aspects of the criminal process; (3) evaluate the relationship between different aspects of the criminal justice process and the impact of this process on particular sections of the population; and the principle and policy arguments in relation to fundamental procedural considerations with current and proposed procedural and substantive rules; and (4) demonstrate an ability and willingness to participate, contribute and present arguments in seminars ways that are effective and persuasive to legal and non-legal audiences.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research essay; (2) in-class exercise; and (3) class participation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Meredith Blake
Unit rules
Prerequisites
LAWS4101 Foundations of Law and Lawyering
and LAWS4102 Criminal Law
and 24 points from
LAWS4103 Contract
, LAWS4104 Property
, LAWS4106 Torts
, LAWS4107 Land Law
, LAWS4108 Foundations of Public Law , ( LAWS4109 Legal Theory and Ethics
or LAWS4110 Interpretation
)
Contact hours
Up to 3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.