Criminal Law Basics

RATIONALE

The purpose of this module is to examine the concepts and principles of criminal law in England. The course covers both general principles of criminal law as well as substantive law concerning a range of crimes. The module engages with classic and emerging debates in criminal law, which attract considerable academic discussion, integrating theory and application. The module further emphasizes critical engagement with academic legal discourse as well as interpretation and application of cases and statutes to legal problems. This module also facilitates the consolidation of academic skills developed in the Legal Methods & Advocacy module. As part of this process, students undertake legal research, draft answers to problem questions, and develop their skills in writing discursive essays.

AIMS

The overarching aims of the module are as follows:

1.    Develop an understanding of the concepts and principles of English criminal law 
2.    Identify theoretical perspectives on criminal law.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

1.    Identify the elements of crime across a range of offences under English law. 
2.    Appreciate the types of offences and punishment.
3.    Distinguish between different types of fatal offences and offences against property.