What is it and why should I do it?
Studying Legal Studies is about much more than being a lawyer! It explores human nature, social issues, politics, government and ethics. You will learn about who makes our laws and how this is done.
You will learn about the two major areas of the law - criminal cases and civil disputes.
In studying crime you will explore the different categories of crime and learn about the elements of different crimes, defences and trends. We focus on homicide and culpable driving causing death. Recent Victorian cases are used to connect theory to reality. You will learn about how courts operate, the role of judges and juries and what is involved in working out how to appropriately respond to someone found guilty of a crime in terms of sanctions and sentencing. You will be the judge!
In studying civil disputes - disputes between two parties - you will learn about negligence and defamation and how how courts try to protect our rights and compensate us if things hurt or damage us.
Legal Studies students are engaged in analytic thinking, ethical reasoning and social and political analysis.
What will I do in class?
How much homework will I have?
Homework is crucial to success in this subject. It will range from completing unfinished work, undertaking regular revision questions from the textbook and revision of key terms and specialist terminology. Students are also encouraged to listen and view a range of multimedia sources. It is anticipated that you complete several hours of homework every week.