Course Catalogue

Law and Government (Common Law - FR) LAW2048

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Law
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 2 (SCQF level 8)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course builds on the knowledge and skills already developed in Constitutional Law 1, by assessing the role of the courts and other institutions in seeking to make government (at local, regional, national) accountable.

Timetable

2 * 1 hour lectures a week in semester 1

 

Five rounds of two-hour tutorials in groups of circa 20 students, taking place in semester 1

Requirements of Entry

Normally, obtaining credit in Constitutional Law 1.

Excluded Courses

LAW2010, LAW2049, LAW2058 (other versions of this course)

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Assessment one consists of a group essay, taking place in groups of approximately five students. It is worth 25% of the overall grade for the course. A proportion of the grade for the assessment will reflect the other group members' assessment of each member's contribution.


Assessment two consists of a two-hour unseen examination, to be held during the semester 1 examination period in December. It is worth 75% of the grade for the course.

Main Assessment In: December

Course Aims

to introduce students to the theory and principles of accountable government;

to introduce students to judicial techniques for achieving accountable government, in particular, judicial review and the Human Rights Act;
to introduce students to the peculiarities of litigation against the Crown and public authorities;
to introduce students to alternative techniques of accountable government;
to improve students' written communication skills;
to improve students' legal reasoning and problem-solving skills;
to improve students' group working and research skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course each student will be able to:

understand and explain the theory and practice of judicial review of government action;

understand and explain the peculiar features of litigation involving the Crown and public authorities;

understand and explain the theory and practice of non-curial redress of citizens' grievances;

engage in independent analysis and criticism of judicial reasoning;

demonstrate effective legal problem-solving skills;

demonstrate a high level of written communication skills in problem-solving and case analysis;

demonstrate effective research skills, working as part of a group.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions