Module Information

Module Identifier
LP30200
Module Title
Law of Contract for GDL Students
Academic Year
2016/2017
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1 (Taught over 2 semesters)
Co-Requisite
LP30105, LP30220, LP30320, LP30420, LP30520, LP30620, LP30720, LP30820, LP30920
Other Staff

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Essay  - of 1,000 words  20%
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Exam  80%
Supplementary Assessment Essay  - of 1,000 words - if essay element failed  20%
Supplementary Exam 2 Hours   Exam  - if exam element failed  80%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Explain the underlying concepts of contract law as a largely common law subject.
2. Show evidence of an ability to apply precedents and the use of legal argument based on case law.
3. Critically analyse the impact of relevant legislation on the common law position.
4. Apply contract law critically to theoretical and practical problems.
5. Communicate findings concisely and effectively at an academic level using the correct relevant legal terminology.

Brief description

Contract law is part of the fabric of our everyday lives. We make contracts when we buy a newspaper or travel on a bus. Obviously not all contracts are of those simple types. Contracts dealing with the construction of ships or buildings will be highly complex. Nevertheless, across that spectrum the underlying principles of contract law remain the same and it is those basic principles which are the subject matter of this course.

However, it does not simply aim to provide a view of the law as a set of rules but as an area developing in the light of tensions within the law and the difficulties encountered in particular contexts. As a course taken at the start of legal study, it also has an important role in developing basic legal skills. The aim is to promote an understanding of how a legal area which is largely based on case law develops.

This module will enable students to develop an awareness of the need for accurate language; a logical approach to problems, effective communication skills and a critical approach to law and legal argument.

Content

  • Introduction to the Law of Contract
  • Formation of the Contract
  • Intention to create legal relations
  • Consideration
  • Privity
  • Express and Implied Terms
  • Conditions, Warranties and Innominate Terms
  • Exemption clauses & Unfair Terms
  • Misrepresentation
  • Duress and undue influence
  • Mistake
  • Frustration
  • Performance and Breach
  • Remedies
  • An outline of the Law of Restitution

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number
Communication Preparation for and discussion in seminars
Improving own Learning and Performance Post lecture research and seminar preparation
Information Technology Post lecture research and seminar preparation
Personal Development and Career planning Learning throughout the module will be relevant to a career in the legal profession
Problem solving Preparation for and discussion of problem solving questions in seminars
Research skills Post lecture research and seminar preparation
Subject Specific Skills
Team work Seminar work: preparation and group discussion

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6