LLAW3334 Advanced Criminal Law

This topic goes beyond the basic aspects of criminal law to extend students' understanding of the theories, principles and policies that inform and shape criminal justice. Selected contemporary offences and emerging issues in criminal law will be addressed and may include corporate criminal liability, fraud, sexual offences, as well as the suite of terrorism-related offences and select cybercrimes. This topic offers students an opportunity to engage in a significant research project on a subject approved by the coordinator, drawing upon those theories, principles and policies that shape criminal justice in Australia and internationally.

This topic aims to:

• Identify, explain and apply advanced concepts and doctrines of criminal law relevant to the contemporary offences or emerging issues discussed in the topic
• Identify, apply and critique certain the theories, principles and policies that inform and shape criminal justice relevant to the contemporary offences or emerging issues discussed in the topic
• Generate an environment in which students can reach critical comprehension of the strengths and weaknesses of advanced issues in criminal law and reflect on the operation and effect of criminal law
• Provide a structured environment in which students can acquire and strengthen skills in research relevant to those contemporary or emerging offences discussed in the topic

1. Identify relevant authority and apply appropriate facts to problem-based questions related to those contemporary offences addressed in class and demonstrate your understanding in written form
2. Communicate your understanding over a range of contemporary offences and emerging issues offences as well as those theories, principles and policies that inform and shape criminal justice
3. Implement your research skills on a subject relevant to contemporary criminal offences or emerging criminal issues, inclusive of the analysis and synthesis of relevant primary and secondary legal materials