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Law — LLB (Hons) LLB (Hons)

Peterborough

Year 1

Contemporary Issues

This module is an introduction to key contemporary issues and global challenges affecting multiple disciplines - Business, Science, Engineering, Computing, Health and Social Care. You will engage in interdisciplinary thinking and working to develop a deeper understanding of the current global issues that impact your discipline, other sectors in society and your future career path. The module will provide you with real-world context and insights from industry professionals and academics, allowing you to develop your academic foundations as you analyse and propose solutions to real-world challenges. The module assessments enable you to develop your research, problem solving and critical thinking skills through in-depth study, as well as be able to communicate your findings effectively using both traditional and creative media formats.

Literacies in Higher Education

This module will enable you to learn a set of important skills and competencies needed to progress to level 4 of an undergraduate degree. On the successful completion of this module, you will have developed, as a minimum, the literacies expected of an undergraduate student. These literacies include Independent Learning, Digital, Academic, Information, Creative, Social, Emotional and Assessment. The module will consist of several ‘taster’ subject specialist sessions early in trimester 1 (for Business & Law, Engineering & Computing, Built & Natural environment, Health, and Science), as well as sessions focused on employability, professional bodies/membership, and career pathways. The module assessments will include individual and group projects, which will enable you to apply the knowledge and skills you have gained during your first year of study. You also will be encouraged to reflect on your own learning and development throughout the module.

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Extended Project

This module will help you develop additional critical knowledge, skills and competencies that will prepare you for progression to undergraduate study on our portfolio of extended degree programmes. The module will give you the opportunity to focus on an area most relevant to your chosen course and investigate a topic that interests you the most. There will be specific lectures, workshops and tutorials covering the approaches, skills and competencies required for project-based learning, you will also be participating in regular group supervision sessions with a relevant member of staff for your topic. You will be encouraged to be creative with the outputs presented – both “in writing” and “in person” using graphics, audio, video etc. to bring your topic to life. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own learning and development throughout the module.

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Year 2

Public Law and the Law of the European Union

Public Law (sometimes referred to as Constitutional and Administrative Law) is all about legal power: where it is located in the British constitution and how and by whom its use is scrutinised and checked. This module is fundamental to those considering a career in the legal profession and provides a broad framework in which all other areas of substantive law operate, whilst also reflecting on the historical development of liberal values and contemporary notions of citizenship that underpin modern British society and values. You will focus on the constitution of the United Kingdom, providing you with a solid foundation in the main structures, relationships and themes in domestic constitutional law. You will also look at the law and institutions of the EU, and this includes the historical and current relationship with Member States and within the English legal system. After considering these key areas, you will move on to administrative law and related matters. The focus will be on the main non-parliamentary ways in which decision-makers are held to account and will involve looking at inquiries and ombudsmen and the important function of judicial review which you’ll examine through authentic, real world case studies. Finally, you’ll be introduced to human rights and civil liberties, particularly the substance and impact of the Human Rights Act 1998 and its place conceptually and practically within law. In addition to the study of the above as academic components of legal studies, this module is designed to reflect necessary elements required by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

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English Legal System and Skills

You will be introduced to key concepts in English law and the skills you will need to be successful in the LLB and later use in your career. The key theme running throughout the module is that law is dynamic, and the study skills are pervasive. The concepts you will cover are, the sources of law and Statutory interpretation, the structure of the legal system, the civil legal system, the criminal legal system, access to justice, the future of law. The transferable skills that you will obtain will be legal research (such as fact handling and case reading and Informational literacy), group working skills (such as advocacy and negotiation), enhanced communication skills (both written and oral), interviewing skills, digital and analysis skills.

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Criminal Law

You’ll gain the knowledge and understanding of the core principles and rules of criminal law, concentrating on the principles of criminal liability relating to a range of criminal offences and specific defences. You’ll examine and analyse case studies to understand the relevant legislation and case law in relation to the offence and identify the lines of defence. By analysing these case scenarios, you’ll identify key facts governing criminal liability and relate these to the applicable law, as well as evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each side’s case. The knowledge gained will help not only those interested in a career in the criminal justice system but also those interested in careers in non-governmental organisations (e.g. charitable organisations). You’ll become familiar with the key organisations, and their personnel and responsibilities, such as the Crown Prosecution Service, the Serious Fraud Office and other organisations in the non-governmental sector.

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Contract Law

Gain a foundation in the basic principles relating to the formation of contracts, developing the idea of consensus and the rules and principles governing enforceability, performance and discharge of contracts. You’ll be introduced to common law and equitable principles as well as relevant legislation. In addition to studying 'black letter' law, you’re encouraged to critically assess the law and to evaluate it in a social, political and economic context. During group sessions you’ll take part in mooting activities, as preparation for your assessment but also as a means of developing your problem-solving, case location, communications and argument.

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Into ARU

Entering third level education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all students to make the most of the opportunities Higher Education provides, so they reach their potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is, in itself, quite a journey. This module is designed to ease that transition. You will be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you will explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where students collect knowledge and various complete mini tasks. You will proceed at your own pace, though we expect all students to have completed their Into ARU exploration by week 6. Students who, for whatever reason, are unable to complete by that date, will be signposted to existing services so that we can be confident that they are supported.

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Year 3

Tort Law

Develop a thorough understanding of the major areas of the law of tort, including key concepts and principles with particular emphasis on their application and evaluation as the law operates in society. You'll gain a sound knowledge of the principles of tort, enabling you to suggest solutions to factual problems and analysis of contemporary issues. You'll also develop an appreciation of those within the sector such as courts, insurers, employers and the Health and Safety Executive.

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Business Law

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of company law as the legal framework under which business are established and operate. The module aims to capture the dynamism of this aspect of law and to develop your awareness of the place and function of company law in a practical and theoretical context. The module aims to develop an understanding of the legal principles and theories underpinning the law relating to companies and focuses on four major areas: corporate personality, rights and liabilities; corporate governance and corporate social responsibility; shareholders rights and remedies; companies in financial difficulties. The module will facilitate both a 'black letter' and socio-legal approach to law and will provide both a practical and theoretical framework for the law relating to businesses.

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Equity and the Law of Trusts

You will be introduced to the concept of property and proprietary rights, as they are recognised and protected in equity, and explore the nature of the trust. You will study an historical account of the development of and distinction between law and equity before examining the nature of equitable rights and remedies. Over the module you will gain a sound knowledge and understanding of equity and trusts law, developing your critical analysis to suggest reasoned solutions to factual problems. Trusts are used in a wide array of circumstances therefore this module considers the importance of equity and trusts in a legal practice, possibly as a commercial or family practitioner, of property, conveyancing, or in relation to wills and the administration of estates. You will also consider fiduciary relationships, charitable status and trustee duties. In addition to studying equity and the law of trusts as an academic component of legal studies, this module is designed to reflect some elements required by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

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Ruskin Module (15 credits)

Ruskin Modules are designed to prepare our students for a complex, challenging and changing future. These interdisciplinary modules provide the opportunity to further broaden your perspectives, develop your intellectual flexibility and creativity. You will work with others from different disciplines to enable you to reflect critically on the limitations of a single discipline to solve wider societal concerns. You will be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines to apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, seek and maximise opportunities to realise your potential to give you a distinctive edge and enhance your success in the workplace.

The Law of Information, Intellectual Property and Social Media

This module is designed to enable you develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of the major areas of the law of information, intellectual property and social media including key concepts and principles and such detailed rules as are necessary to illustrate those broad principles as they apply in particular situations. This study will enable you (i) to gain a sound knowledge and understanding of the law relating to information, intellectual property and social media, (ii) to suggest solutions to factual problems and (iii) to apply this knowledge and understanding to the critical analysis of contemporary business and social issues relating to the law of information, intellectual property and social media. Teaching is by large group sessions and seminars. In addition to providing a structured outline and an introductory critique of topics and concepts, large group sessions will be used to consider research methods, relevant case law and statutory material. Seminar groups will focus on selected topics, cases, journal articles and other materials which you're required to read and analyse and, as appropriate discuss or apply in the context of problem solving. Particular emphasis is placed on discussion, application and evaluation of the law as it operates in business and society. The module develops a wide range of legal skills including those directly linked to employability and in particular employers producing, using and processing personal data information and those initiating or using social media, patents, trademarks and copyright material. You will also develop skills in research, problem solving, analysis and application.

Legal Work Experience

You'll prepare for the transition from education to work by applying the theory and skills from the classroom in a practical way whilst raising awareness of and reflecting on your needs and attitude to learning and work. You'll explore how work and learning interacts, increasing your self-reliance and confidence whilst developing your understanding of your needs and those of your work experience and potential future employers. Within your work experience you'll use the theory and knowledge gained in the classroom, utilising the skills of analysis and reflection, team work, communications and presentations to undertake a project and evaluate how the work experience has affected your future employment potential, progression plans or career aspirations.

The Law of Family Relationships

This module explores the ways in which the state regulates the formation and termination of marriage, the types of personal and familial relationships and the conduct between family members. It specifically addresses the economic issues and legal solutions confronting marital and non-marital families, particularly upon divorce, domestic violence within marriage and non-marital family units, property rights and the family home and the relationship between private decision-making and state imposed solutions. Finally, the module examines the nature of childhood within law, how agency is granted or denied to children, how the law offers vulnerable children protection and security, regulates parenting through the intervention of courts and wardship. The module content is highly relevant to professional legal practice. Family law is a widespread practice area in law firms requiring an understanding of not just the law but the social, ethical, religious and cultural norms that families live by – a theme permeating the teaching of this module. The module also helps prepare you for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) – particularly legal research and writing which forms part of the SQE2 assessment. The module also develops a number of employability skills which are transferrable within a wide range of workplace settings. For example, problem-solving, critical-thinking skills, research and communication skills, focusing on the client’s needs and cultural sensitivity by understanding LGBT and cohabiting relationships and feminist and other critical perspectives.

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Year 4

Property Law

The module starts with the consideration of the question, 'what is land?' You'll explore the nature of ownership and the legal and equitable estates and interests that can exist in land and examine how estates and interests are protected including the systems of unregistered and registered title to land. Whilst looking at the underlying principles of land law, you'll study the various estates and interests in greater detail, including leasehold estate and third party interests such as mortgages, easements and covenants, co-ownership and the role and duties of trustees and beneficiaries of co-owned land.

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Wills and the Administration of Estates

In this module, you will develop a systematic understanding of key aspects of the law governing wills and the administration of estates. For example, you will consider what might happen if a will, or part of a will, is invalid. You will also learn more about how and when challenges of a will can be made. Writing and legal research skills are key to your success in this module. You will apply relevant core legal principles and rules appropriately and effectively to realistic client-based and ethical problems and situations. You will be provided with relevant case studies in taxation and numeracy support will be provided. In addition to studying wills and the administration of estates (sometimes referred to as ‘The law of Succession’) as an academic component of legal studies, this module is designed to reflect some elements required by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Some elements of Ethics and Professional Conduct are pervasive, and relevant elements of Solicitors Accounts will be considered.

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Undergraduate Major Project in Law (Dissertation)

In this module you’ll undertake a substantial piece of law research or a legal practice related project (which could be based on your experience of a specific organisation), focused on a topic relevant to your studies and career aspirations. You’ll identify and formulate problems and issues, conduct bibliographical research (and any other research methods appropriate to your project), determine solutions and engage in critical evaluation, including formulating proposals for reform of the law or procedure where appropriate. Your findings could be presented in a range of ways for example a report containing recommendations for your chosen organisation as part of your work-based project.

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Civil Litigation

You'll cover basic law and procedures involved in acting in a civil litigation claim. You'll look at interviewing a client and taking instructions in a basic litigation matter. Based on a case study in the context of a personal injury matter, you'll take client instructions and explore the evidential basis of the claim, consider the costs and funding and the steps needed in the personal injury protocol before considering other causes of action such as simple breaches of contract and reviewing the implications of the claim not being settled. As part of the module, you'll draft a simple claim and look at the procedural steps that need to be taken to issue a claim in the County Court and serve it on a defendant before considering the draft of their defence.

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Criminal Litigation

You'll cover basic law and procedures involved in acting in a criminal case. You'll look at interviewing a client and taking instructions in relation to a criminal charge. Your work will be based on a case study, starting with the arrest of a client and continuing through caution, practice and procedure in the police station and the test for charging. This will include police powers of arrest and search and the rights of the person detained in the police station. You'll cover the professional conduct aspects of attending at the police station and of conducting the case to its conclusion, as well as costs and funding. Post charge, you'll cover the first court appearance, including bail and pleas, before moving on to taking further instructions, building a defence case, practical application of evidence and trial venue, followed by summary trial. As a hands-on practical module, you'll work on your interviewing, negotiation and drafting skills to think practically and commercially, having a regard for the reality of cost effective criminal defence work.

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Employment Law

You'll learn about the sources and institutions of employment law and examine the law relating to the formation, content and termination of contracts of employment, the nature of the employment relationship and the status of employees and others performing services. You'll discuss the protection offered to employees in relation to dismissal and the impact this has on employers, as well as considering issues of business reorganisation and managerial prerogative, and their relationship with the law of employment through the law relating to redundancy and transfer of undertakings You'll also consider issues of discrimination in employment (including equal pay). You're advised to have prior knowledge of contract law. Employment law as a subject will give you knowledge of the workplace and the relationship between employers and employees, so is particularly valued in careers such as human resources management.

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