Postgraduate - UnitLAW7208 - Contemporary problems in the administration of criminal justice

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

Synopsis

The unit will vary so as to maintain a focus of developing significance. Topics covered may include: concepts of criminal justice, managerialism in criminal justice, juries, legal aid in the post-Dietrich era, the nature and extent of police investigative powers, gender issues in criminal justice, judicial training, recent developments in sentencing, the media and the criminal justice system, prosecution of complex criminal cases, the concept of dangerousness in the criminal justice system and miscarriages of justice.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should:

1. have an enhanced understanding of the administration and functioning of the criminal justice system in Victoria
2. possess an appreciation of the ways in which the content of subjects such as evidence, criminal procedure and substantive criminal law come together in the context of a criminal trial
3. possess a substantial practical understanding of the details of the conduct of a criminal trial in Victoria
4. possess an enhanced capacity to evaluate from a theoretical and critical perspective aspects of the administration of the criminal justice system.

Assessment

Research assignment (5,000 words): 70%
Research assignment (2,500 words): 30%

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week