Course Catalogue

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This course will examine a range of contemporary issues and debates relating to the criminal justice system. It will do so with particular reference to United Kingdom jurisdictions (especially Scotland), but will also draw upon the experiences of other jurisdictions and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights. The particular issues covered will vary on a year by year basis but are likely to include topics such as the prosecution of sexual offences, the use of juries in criminal trials, the use of restorative justice and victim involvement in criminal justice processes.

10 x 2-hour seminars

This course is only available to LLB students.

None

None

1 hour exam (50% of final grade)

2,500-word essay (50% of final grade)

This course will:

1. Introduce students to issues in criminal justice policy in the UK, with particular reference to Scotland.

2. Help students to develop and apply conceptual, critical and analytical skills to issues associated with contemporary criminal justice in the UK, with particular reference to Scotland.. 

3. Provide an opportunity to assess the role of material from other jurisdictions as a source of understanding and critical analysis of the Scottish experience.

4. Provide an opportunity to carry out an independent research project on a topic of contemporary relevance.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Understand and critically evaluate issues in criminal justice policy.

2. Undertake independent research using a variety of legal and non-legal sources.

3. Exhibit a wide knowledge of both primary and secondary sources in relation to the topics covered.

4. Demonstrate oral communication skills, with a particular focus on presenting knowledge and information to support oral argument.