Scotch College

VCE: Legal Studies

Rationale

This study is about the way the law serves and relates to both individuals and the community. It focuses on developing an understanding of the way in which law is generated, structured and operates in Australia.

Structure 

Unit 1: Criminal law and Justice 

This unit focuses on the importance of criminal law and the nature of criminal liability. It also focuses on the role of the police, explores criminal trial procedures, and the objectives and effectiveness of criminal sanctions. 

Unit 2: Civil law and the law in focus 

This unit focuses on the effective resolution of civil disputes, including the processes involved in civil litigation.  In addition, the Unit investigates alternative avenues of resolving disputes, and gives students the opportunity to explore a specific area of law. 

Unit 3: Law-Making 

This unit focuses on the institutions that determine laws and the processes by which laws are made. Students will look at the impact of the Constitution and consider the strengths and weaknesses of the law-making bodies. 

Unit 4: Dispute Resolution 

This unit looks at the jurisdictions of our courts, tribunals and alternative avenues of dispute resolution with a view to comparing and evaluating them. The jury and adversary system of trial will also be analysed.

Assessment

Units 1 & 2: Criminal Law (Examination)

Making the Law (Test)

Implementation of the Law (Test & Activity)

Unit 3: School-Assessed Coursework 25 per cent

Unit 4: School-Assessed Coursework 25 per cent

Units 3 & 4: Examination 50 per cent