Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this module, a student, who has attended lectures and engaged with directed readings, will be able to:
a) Demonstrate knowledge of the Irish legal system.
b) Evaluate the hierarchy of sources of law.
c) Critically analyse the interaction of various sources of law and their precise value in the Irish legal system.
d) Discuss the function and jurisdiction of the Irish courts in interpreting legislation and the role of the courts in developing (or otherwise) common law.
e) Analyse discrete topics relating to judges; lawyers; women, feminism and Irish law; and access to justice.
Indicative Module Content:
In this academic year, LAW10360 will examine the following topics over the duration of the module (subject to change):
The rule of law and sources of law
Courts system and jurisdiction;
Law, legislation & legislative (statutory) interpretation;
Common law and precedent,
EU & international law in the Irish legal system
Judges in the Irish legal system
Legislation as the main source of law
Lawyers in a digital age
Women, feminism and the Irish legal system.
Access to justice (civil legal aid)