Substantive Criminal Law Actus reus and mens rea; homicide; non-fatal offences against the person; theft and dishonesty offences; attempts and secondary participation; general defences (e.g., self-defence, duress, insanity). Criminal Justice System Role of CPS and police; pre-trial decision-making; court structures (Magistrates’, Crown, appellate courts); bail, remand, sentencing, appeals; legal aid and access to justice.

Ethics and Practice Prosecutorial discretion, fairness in trial processes, racial and gender disparities, human rights protections under ECHR, ethical obligations in advocacy.

Assessment 1: Problem Question and Legal Opinion (2,500 words) - This assessment requires students to analyse complex factual scenarios using relevant statutory provisions, case law, and academic commentary. It evaluates students' ability to apply criminal law principles, demonstrate systematic understanding, and critically engage with the structure of the criminal justice system. (Assesses Learning Outcomes: LO1: Knowledge of criminal liability. LO2: Legal application and reasoning LO3: Critical analysis of doctrine and institutions)

Assessment 2: Oral Advocacy Simulation (10 minutes) - This task involves the preparation and delivery of oral legal submissions based on a hypothetical criminal case. Students will be assessed on their ability to present structured, persuasive arguments and apply relevant law in a simulated professional context. This mirrors real-world legal advocacy and develops professional communication skills. (Assesses Learning Outcomes: LO1: Knowledge of criminal liability. LO2: Legal application and reasoning. LO4: Oral communication and advocacy skills.)

Students will learn through doctrinal lectures and scenario led workshops. Workshops will use a variety of teaching and learning methods including simulated advocacy practice, realistic criminal law scenario problem solving and reflective and ethical engagement with contemporary justice debates to promote and develop knowledge and understanding. Students will be given constructive feedback to support their written and oral practice. In terms of inclusivity, core learning materials will be made available in multiple accessible formats to accommodate a range of accessibility needs.

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the principles governing criminal liability, including actus reus, mens rea, and defences.
University Learning Outcome: 1. Knowledge and Understanding 2. Learning 4. Analysis

2. Apply relevant legal authorities to complex criminal law scenarios, demonstrating the ability to advise accurately and ethically.
University Learning Outcome: 1. Knowledge 4. Analysis 5. Problem Solving 7. Application.

3. Critically analyse criminal law doctrine and the structure of criminal justice institutions, identifying tensions between legal theory and practice
University Learning Outcome: 3. Enquiry 4. Analysis

4. Construct and deliver clear, structured, and persuasive oral arguments demonstrating advanced legal communication and advocacy skills.
University Learning Outcome: 2. Learning 6. Communication

Westlaw, Lexis+, Criminal Law Week, Law Trove, Blackboard

Loveless, J., Allen, M., & Derry, C. Complete Criminal Law: Text, Cases and Materials (8th edn, OUP, 2022) Ormerod, D. & Laird, K. Smith, Hogan, & Ormerod's Criminal Law (17th edn, OUP, 2024)
Horder, J. Ashworth’s Principles of Criminal Law (10th edn, OUP, 2022)
Monaghan, N. Criminal Law Directions (7th edn, OUP, 2022)
Finch, E. & Fafinski, S. Law Express: Criminal Law (9th edn, Pearson, 2023)

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This module will introduce you to the legal and procedural landscape of criminal law and the justice system. You will examine the elements of criminal liability and key offences, while also exploring how legal processes operate in practice. Through critical analysis, simulated advocacy, and reflective practice, you will gain the skills needed for further legal training or roles within the criminal justice field.