Studying online

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Unit Overview

Description

This unit is designed as an introduction of international commercial law and covers a number of topics essential for the understanding of international sales and commercial transactions related to sales. The unit is built on Clive Schmitthoff's premise that commercial legal activity needs to be attuned to how business transactions are conducted. It offers insight into the interplay of commerce and business in a legal context, and looks at documentary sales and selected documentary trade terms, in the analysis of the regulatory framework of sales contracts. The unit also looks at two key ancillary contracts in commercial law, such as the financing crucial to trade (with a focus on Documentary Letters of Credit) and shipping of goods (with a focus on carriage of goods by sea).

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate (a) an advanced and integrated knowledge of commercial law in the context of commerce and business; and (b) an in-depth understanding of the global nature of trade law and contemporary approaches to harmonisation; (2) (a) apply legal reasoning to commerce issues; (b) identify and articulate key areas of conflict; and (c) identify potential solutions in the context of domestic and international trade; (3) demonstrate independent research skills and academic writing on a subject of choice relating to commercial law; (4) demonstrate (a) an ability to research and function in a group; and (b) advanced oral presentation skills; and (5) demonstrate ability to (a) conduct independent research; and (b) work with autonomy and professionalism.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) in-class group presentations and (2) research essay (6000 words). 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)
Professor Camilla Baasch Andersen
Unit rules
Prerequisites
for Juris Doctor students: LAWS4101 Legal Process, LAWS4102 Criminal Law, LAWS4103 Contract, LAWS4106 Torts, LAWS4108 Foundations of Public Law, LAWS5106 Legal Theory and Ethics, LAWS4104 Property LAWS4107 Land Law
Contact hours
seminars: 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.