The learning outcomes of the Evidence module Law are designed to provide your with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, policies, and practices related to the presentation and evaluation of evidence in legal proceedings. If you complete the module successfully, you should be able to:
Demonstrate critical awareness of the relationship between theory and practice: You should be able to demonstrate a critical awareness of the relationship between the theoretical context of the law of evidence, its policy aims, and objectives, and the practical application of common law and legislative provisions in evidential matters.
Explain and distinguish between legal and evidential burdens of proof: You should be capable of explaining and distinguishing between legal and evidential burdens of proof. You should be able to understand the role of policy in allocating these burdens and address difficulties in determining whether a statute has impliedly placed a burden of proof on a defendant. Additionally, you should have the ability to recognise the role of Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights in this context.
Construct arguments for or against relevance and admissibility of evidence: You should have the ability to construct arguments for or against the relevance of specific pieces of evidence and make arguments regarding the admissibility of various types of evidence. This includes unlawfully obtained evidence, evidence that may be more prejudicial than probative, sexual history evidence, bad character evidence, evidence of a defendant's silence, hearsay evidence, expert evidence, and eyewitness identification evidence.
Explain and critically evaluate judicial warnings to the jury: You should be able to explain the purpose and content of judicial warnings given to the jury in different circumstances and critically evaluate their effectiveness and significance in ensuring fair trials.
Analyse and interpret complex legal questions and problems: You should have the ability to analyse and interpret complex legal questions and problems in the context of evidence law, including issues related to the admissibility and weight of evidence.
Evaluate and critique legal materials and arguments: You should be proficient in evaluating and critiquing a range of legal materials and arguments related to evidence law, recognising the strengths and weaknesses of different positions.
Distinguish between different types of evidence: You should be able to distinguish between different types of evidence, including direct and circumstantial evidence, and understand the distinctions and relevance of each type in legal proceedings.
Utilise accurate legal terminology: You should be able to use accurate and appropriate legal terminology specific to the area of evidence law in your discussions and written work.
These learning outcomes aim to prepare you for a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices related to evidence law, fostering skills in critical analysis, argument construction, and the application of legal principles to practical scenarios. These skills are valuable for legal practitioners, scholars, and professionals involved in the legal field.
You can study this module with our Evidence notes.
