LAWS1107 Torts I

The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change.

Credit: 6 points Availability: Semester 1 Old unit code: 200.107

Outcomes: Students are able to (1) understand, summarise and critically analyse cases and relevant statutory provisions; (2) demonstrate an understanding of the main elements of a negligence action and principles concerning the assessment of damages; (3) solve legal problems which raise negligence issues; (4) write a clear, concise and logically reasoned legal opinion through comprehensive and accurate research into negligence issues using both primary and secondary sources; (5) work independently and as part of a team; and (6) think creatively, question accepted wisdom (when warranted) and be open to new ideas.

Content: This unit provides students with an understanding of the analytical framework of current Australian tort law, with particular reference to the action in negligence for physical injury. It also addresses the context in which torts law operates. The unit introduces students to the major themes and critical theories in the area and students have opportunities to develop their abilities to engage in critical analysis of the law.

Assessment: Students are required to attend and participate in small-group seminars (10 per cent), complete an assignment (30 per cent) and undertake a final examination (60 per cent).

Supplementary assessment is available for those students who obtain a mark of 45 to 49 inclusive in this unit (see University General Rule 1.2.1.25).

Unit Co-ordinator(s): Associate Professor Doug Hodgson

Location: UWA (Crawley)

Mode: on-campus

Unit Rules:

Co-requisites: LAWS1130 Legal Process

Contact hours—seminars: 3 hrs per week

Unit Web Page: http://www.uwa.edu.au/page/103778

Note: Some unit web pages are still under construction and will be available in 2009.

Texts

Mendelson, D. The New Law of Torts: OUP 2007 (including Casebook)

Recommended Reading

Baker, D. et al. Torts Law in Principle, 4th ed.: Lawbook Co. 2005

Balkin, R. P. and Davis, J. L. R. Law of Torts, 3rd ed.: Butterworths 2004

Clarke, A. and Devereux, J. Torts: A Practical Learning Approach: LexisNexis 2007

Davies, M. and Malkin, I. Torts, 4th ed.: LexisNexis Butterworths 2003

Deakin, S. Markesinis and Deakin's Tort Law, 6th ed.: OUP 2008

Fleming, J. G. The Law of Torts, 10th ed.: Lawbook Co. 2002

Luntz, H. and Hambly, D. Torts: Cases and Commentary, revised 5th ed.: LexisNexis Butterworths 2006

Luntz, H. Assessment of Damages for Personal Injury and Death: General Principles: LexisNexis Butterworths 2006

McGlone, F. and Stickley, A. Australian Torts Law: LexisNexis Butterworths 2005

Rogers, W. Winfield and Jolowicz on Tort, 17th ed.: Sweet & Maxwell 2006

Sappideen, C. et al. Torts: Commentary and Materials, 9th ed.: Thomson Legal and Regulatory 2006

Trindade, F. et al. The Law of Torts in Australia, 4th ed.: OUP 2007

Assistance with study skills, including English language skills, is available free of charge from Student Services for all enrolled students (see http://www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au/). Student Services location: Second Floor, South Wing, Guild Village; telephone: 6488 2423.

Books and other material wherever listed may be subject to change. Book lists relating to 'Preliminary Reading', 'Recommended Reading' and 'Textbooks' are, in most cases, available at the University Co-operative Bookshop (from early January) and appropriate administrative offices for students to consult. For first-year units the Bookshop will endeavour to make available photocopies of book lists for individual units. Books marked with an asterisk (*) are available in paperback.

Unit Resources

Unit Coordinator

Associate Professor Doug Hodgson