Module Information

Module Identifier
LA33820
Module Title
Law of Contract
Academic Year
2019/2020
Co-ordinator
Dr David Poyton
Semester
Semester 2
Also available in
Summer
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
LA13820 or GF13820 Current Part-1 variant
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
GF33820 Welsh-language variant
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
LA35830 Pre-2015 part-2 Contract
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
LA15830 or GF15830 Pre-2015 part-1 versions of Contract
Pre-Requisite
The Law of Obligations (LA13520/GF13520/LA33520/GF33520) or Foundations of Law (LA15710)
Other Staff
 

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Exam 1.5 Hours   60%
Semester Assessment Essay - 1500 words  40%
Supplementary Exam 1.5 Hours   - if element failed (and overall module mark less than 40%)  60%
Supplementary Assessment Essay - 1500 words - if element failed (and overall module mark less than 40%)  40%

Learning Outcomes

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

1. Identify and explain the fundamental principles of the law of contract and critically analyse their relevance and application.
2. Identify, analyse and evaluate the crucial elements required for a legally binding contract.
3. Demonstrate a good understanding of the construction and enforceability of a contract.
4. Evaluate and analyse the scope of contract law, identifying problems and considering options for reform.
5. Construct convincing and cogent arguments on the basis of relevant law and case facts in order to develop skills in reading; understanding and applying the relevant legal texts (cases or legislation) to legal problems; and to interpret and critically analyse legal rules and texts in a sophisticated and effective manner.

Brief description

The module sets out the general requirements for a valid contract. It also looks at procedural unfairness and the parties to the contract. Different aspects of the terms of the contract are also studied. The module then looks at contract performance and breach, and the remedies available.

Aims

The module aims to inform students of the key principles of the different areas set out above, as well as considering the specific legal elements of these principles, primarily through study of relevant case law, but also legislation.

Content

  • Introduction to the Law of Contract
  • Contract Formation
  • Consideration
  • Duress
  • Capacity & Legality
  • Privity of Contract
  • Express and Implied Terms
  • Classification of Terms
  • Incorporation of Terms
  • Construction of Terms
  • Exemption Clauses
  • Contract Misrepresentation
  • Mistake
  • Undue Influence
  • Contract Frustration
  • Performance and Breach of Contract
  • Remedies
  • Restitution

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number
Communication Written communication in the examination and seminars. Additionally, verbal communication in the latter.
Improving own Learning and Performance Pre and post-lecture research and seminar preparation; using legal databases in preparation for seminar work and the examination.
Information Technology Pre and post lecture research; seminar and examination preparation.
Personal Development and Career planning Learning throughout the module will be relevant to a career in the legal profession and for working generally within a business.
Problem solving Preparation for and discussion of problem-solving questions in lectures; practical application in seminars.
Research skills Pre and post-lecture research; seminar and exam preparation.
Subject Specific Skills Legal research: use of legal databases as a resource for statute, case law and journal articles. Reading primary sources such as cases and legislation. Problem-solving exercises in seminars will assist in examination problem-solving style questions, and more widely in the legal profession.
Team work Seminar work; preparation and group discussions.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6