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 introduces students to the principles of equity, which supplements and complements the common law, and the law of trusts. It discusses the development of equity in the Courts of Chancery and the relationship between equity and the common law. In doing so, students examine a number of equitable doctrines including fiduciary relationships, unconscionable bargains, illegitimate pressure, undue influence and estoppel. The unit also introduces students to the nature and the essential characteristics of the trust and the usefulness of the trust in modern society. It examines the formal and substantive requirements for the creation of a trust as well as the principal features of trustees' powers and duties and trustee and beneficiary rights. The class discussions include an examination of equitable remedies, with a key aim of the unit being to explore the relationship between equitable doctrines and equitable remedies and to locate the place of equitable doctrines and remedies within the wider Australian legal landscape.

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

Students are able to (1) identify, state accurately, explain and apply relevant equitable doctrines and principles of Trusts law, both orally and in writing; (2) understand and explain, in particular contexts, the relationship between Equity and the common law; (3) critically ready, analyse and evaluate cases by reference to specified equitable doctrines and remedies; (4) use and cite correctly appropriate authorities in written work; (5) contribute meaningfully and responsibly to class discussions; and (6) use effective oral communication skills.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial participation; (2) case analysis; and (3) final exam. 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)
Elise Bant and Tracey Atkins
Unit rules
Prerequisites
LAWS4101 Foundations of Law and Lawyering, LAWS4104 Property
and LAWS4103 Contract
Contact hours
4 hours per week
Texts

Dal Pont, G. Equity and Trusts in Australia 6th ed: Thompson Law Book Co. 2015

  • 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.