Legal Obligations in Business
MODULE CODE
CREDIT VALUE
Module Aims
Aim 1
To introduce non-law students to basic legal rules, principles, and methods, as well as outlining the basic sources, methods of interpretation and institutions of the English Legal System, as a basis for the study of business. Furthermore, the module aims to encourage students to recognise the application of these legal principles, with reference to hypothetical legal scenarios, particularly in the areas of contract, tort and employment law.
Module Content
•Introduce students to the English Legal System – its structure, institutions, rules, methods and principles;
•Explain the nature and functions of the civil and criminal court system;
•Explain how law is made, with emphasis on judicial precedent and the hierarchy of courts;
•Explain the components of a valid contract-in-law through an assessment of the legal principles of agreement, consideration and intention to create legal relations;
•Distinguish between the main terms of contract;
•Discuss the variety of ways in which contractual duties can be discharged and highlight their remedial effects;
•Introduce the basic principles concerning the formation of an employment contract. The effects of the termination of such a contract will then be explored with reference to unfair dismissal, wrongful dismissal and redundancy.
•Introduce the basic procedural elements for an action in the tort of negligence viz, duty of care, causation and remoteness of damage;
•Assess the main legal forms for creating and facilitating business such as partnerships, companies and corporations;
•Introduce the basic principles of agency law, focussing on the importance of agency for business and the way in which agency authority can be derived.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to:
Teaching Methods
The module will be delivered via weekly lectures and seminars.
The purpose of lectures is to introduce a topic, define its scope and illustrate the principles of law concerned through case analysis, exposition, as well as the use of illustrative examples. The lectures aim to equip students with a broad sketch of the main issues pertaining to a topic, which would provide a framework to develop on, and answer seminar questions prior to the seminar. Further, a discussion of past examination questions is a must upon the completion of each legal topic, enabling students to understand how the legal principles can be applied to given legal situations.
The aim of seminars is to demonstrate preparation and understanding of a topic through guided reading, preparation of set questions, and discussion and argument with peers in small group situations. Students are encouraged to lead discussions to develop their ability to contribute confidently to class discussions.
The assessment strategy is designed to allow students to gain proficiency in the fundamental technical and computational aspects of the subject. It is also designed meet the Accountancy Professional Bodies exemption criteria as well as test the width and depth of a student’s knowledge.
Formative feedback on seminar and practice questions is provided to students on a weekly basis, with additional support available in the timetabled Technical Support Workshops.
Assessment Methods
This module is assessed through two examinations.
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Compulsory
Optional
