English Criminal Law and Evidence module (LW22012)

Criminal law is one of the highest-profile areas of law. This is why criminal law cases are seen on broadcast or online media every day.

This attention is often centred on severe cases, including murder and rape. However, criminal law affects everyone – for example, it regulates how fast we can drive, what we can and cannot do on a night out, and what can and cannot be smoked.

This module covers criminal law and evidence, including the constituent elements of criminal liability and the elements that make a defence to a criminal charge.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about the main features of criminal liability in England and Wales
• learn about the fundamental concepts of the English law of evidence
• learn about the constituent elements of key criminal offences (including homicide, non-fatal offences against the person, sexual offences, theft, and offences against property)
• learn about the general defences available in English criminal law and how they operate to negate liability
   

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• describe the main features of criminal liability in England and Wales
• describe the core principles of the English law of evidence
• apply the knowledge gained to problem situations

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (40%)
• multiple choice exam (60%)

Teaching methods / timetable

The module is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and independent study.

Lectures will be used to present information and structure learning, with some interaction.

Tutorials will allow small group work and student-led discussion.