The module will aim to develop a comprehensive understanding of the nature and sources of English law, including its political nature and the hierarchy and structure of the English Legal System. Included within this, the problems associated with the interpretation and implementation of the law will be highlighted. The political nature of law and its relation to justice will also be stressed. In addition to developing an understanding of the English Legal System and sources of law, students will be introduced to critical legal studies and a critical approach towards the law. A number of case studies taken from contemporary legal topics such as judicial diversity, access to justice, and reforming the legal system will be utilised, to enable students to better understand critical legal studies and critical approaches towards the law.
Private Study: 204
Contact Hours:96
Total Hours: 300
Autumn term (term 1) and Spring term (term 2)
Main assessment methods
Coursework - assignment 1 (1250 words) – 25%
Coursework – assignment 2 (2000 word) - 35%
Examination (2 hours) - 40%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
Recommended core text
Slorach S., Embley J., Goodchild P. and Shephard C., Legal Systemsand Skills, Oxford University Press , 2020.
Slapper G., How the Law Works (4th edition), Routledge, London, 2016.
Suggested additional reading
Carr H., Carter S. and Horsey K., Skills for Law Students, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2009
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of the English Legal System and the law-making process including the court structure.
2 Demonstrate an understanding of the basic forms and sources of law, and be able to differentiate between and critically evaluate these sources,
3 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of critical legal studies and what it means to approach law critically,
4 Discuss issues associated with the separation of law and politics within the legal system and the relationship between law and power.
5 Develop an understanding of law as a social practice by examining the relationship between law and a number of other disciplines such as history, politics, sociology and philosophy. Evaluate the impact of these external factors on the English Legal System.
6 Demonstrate legal research and writing skills, particularly the ability to compose legal arguments.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. be able to utilise research from both electronic sources and paper materials to develop effective written communication.
2. be able to effectively utilise case law to critically evaluate the law and its sources
3. be able to effectively reference sources in their written work using either Harvard or Oscola
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