Introductory description

This module will offer foundation students an introduction to the study of Criminal Law, with a focus on legal terminology such as actus reus, causation, mens rea and strict liability. Students will then focus their studies on the non-fatal offences and general defences.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

In Introduction to Criminal Law, students will be introduced to the requirements for criminal liability, demonstrated through an in-depth study of a range of non-fatal offences and general defences. The module also offers students the opportunity to critically evaluate the law in this area.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Explain the fundamental aspects of criminal liability, including actus reus, causation and mens rea.
• Define a range of common law and statutory non-fatal offences.
• Explain the defences of consent, self defence and intoxication.
• Apply decision-making to gain an insight into the options facing lawyers regarding criminal charges and their consequences.
• Construct and present arguments through appropriate and effective legal reasoning.
• Evaluate the law and recognise the role of the Law Commission in proposing changes to criminal law.

Indicative reading list

Criminal Law by Michael Allen;
Offences Against the Person: Into the 21st Century by Michael Jefferson (article);
Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person: Complexities, Difficulties and Reform null by Charles Anderson McCombe (article)

Subject specific skills

Develop detailed understanding of criminal liability for non-fatal offences. Identify relevant issues in criminal situations, from which to formulate questions and conduct investigatory research. Appreciate differences between establishing liability in different areas of the law. Apply Criminal Law concepts competently to analyse specific questions or issues. Articulate reasoned arguments in a clearly-structured format in response to Criminal Law issues that arise in a scenario. Evaluate the law and recognise the role of the Law Commission in proposing changes to the Criminal Law. Draw upon appropriate sources of law to support reasoning. Employ tools of legal analysis to construct persuasive arguments and justified conclusions. Develop skills in OSCOLA referencing.

Transferable skills

Analytical skills; Communication skills; Confidence; Creative problem solving; Critical thinking; Ethical awareness; Flexibility; Independent working; Initiative; Planning and organisation; Professionalism; Research skills; Self awareness; Team working; Time management; Use / Application of knowledge.