Introductory description

The module aims are: To introduce students to the way in which legal systems work.

To develop an understanding of the main sources of law and the procedures involved in creating law.

To develop an understanding of the hierarchy of the court system and the importance of the doctrine of stare decisis.

To understand the basic concepts and principles of contract law and the importance of contract formation in the business world.

To understand the different legal forms of business and the legal formalities required to set up as a sole trader, in partnership and as a limited company.

To develop legal skills including analysis of legal problems, and problem-solving techniques which can be applied to analyse a range of hypothetical problems.

To be able to conduct research using official sources of legislation and case-law.

To gain experience in preparing and presenting legal arguments.

To develop an ability to evaluate and criticise legal principles.

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.

The module includes the following:

The Legal System
An introduction to the English legal system, with particular reference to how the law is made and how legal disputes are resolved. Civil and criminal law distinctions. The creation of law through judicial precedent, statute law and European law. Interpretation of statutes. The court system and procedures for commencing a legal dispute. The role and qualifications of solicitors and barristers.

Business Transactions
An introduction to the formation of contracts, with particular reference to the importance of contract formation in the world of business. Offer and acceptance, consideration, intention to create legal relations, capacity to contract, the purpose of contracts. Contracts in restraint of trade. The postal rules and the relevance of modern methods of communication. Rights of Third Parties Act.

Business Organisations
The legal formalities involved in setting up in business as a sole trader, in partnership and as a limited liability company. The Partnership Act and Companies Acts, Forming partnership agreements. Limited liability partnerships. Agency and the role of the partner. Memorandum and Articles of Association. Effects of incorporation. Lifting the corporate veil.

Learning outcomes

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

• Understand the essential features, institutions and principles of legal systems with particular reference to the English legal system
• Recognise the major sources of law.
• Recognise the hierarchy of English courts and to be able to understand the doctrine of stare decisis.
• Understand the basic principles and theories underlying the law of contract.
• Analyse texts and oral presentations.
• Communicate complex ideas effectively.
• Test and refine hypotheses.

Indicative reading list

Core text: Introduction to Business Law, 4th edition, 2017 Oxford University Press Illustrative Reading: James Marson & Katy Ferris, Business Law, 5th edition, 2018 Oxford University Press Alix Adams Law for Business Students, 10th edition, 2018, Pearson. Ewan Macintyre, Essentials of Business Law, 6th edition, 2018, Pearson Card and James, Business Law, 4th edition, 2016, Oxford University Press

Subject specific skills

Analyse legal problems.
Conduct research using official sources of legislation and case law.
Prepare and present legal arguments for both sides of a legal dispute.
Evaluate and criticise current law and reform proposals

Transferable skills

Conduct independent research of set issues using library and electronic sources.
Present reasoned arguments.
Support arguments by reference to appropriate sources.