LAWS11-216: Constitutional Law

Description

Constitutional Law is a compulsory subject in the Bachelor of Laws program offered by the Faculty of Law. This subject examines the fundamentals of Australian constitutional law, often in a comparative context. Topics considered include the rule of law, the separation of powers, principles of constitutional interpretation, the rules governing exercises of legislative, executive and judicial power, constitutional change, constitutional principles relating to individual rights and freedoms, the relationship between federal, state and territory governments, including inconsistency of laws, and fiscal federalism. Emphasis is placed on the development of legal research and reasoning skills.

Subject details

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate advanced and integrated understanding of a number of constitutional law topics, including: (a) Constitutional interpretation, judicial reasoning, and the characterisation process; (b) Principles governing the separation of judicial, executive and legislative powers; (c) Principles of constitutional change and reform; (d) The constitutional protection, or otherwise, of individual rights and freedoms; and (e) Comparative constitutionalism and/or contemporary issues in constitutional law.
2. Demonstrate competency in exercising the following skill at an intermediate level, with creativity, initiative and autonomy: (a) legal research and reasoning
3. Adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, including a commitment to: (a) Learning and working autonomously, accountably and reflectively; (b) Behaving ethically and responsibly; and (c) Managing time effectively and meeting deadlines.

Enrolment requirements

Subject outlines

• January 2020 [Standard]
• September 2019 [Standard]
• May 2019 [Standard]
• January 2019 [Standard]
• September 2018 [Standard]
• May 2018 [Standard]
• January 2018 [Standard]
• September 2017 [Standard]
• May 2017 [Standard]

Subject dates