Year 12 Legal Studies.

Students investigate the definition of crime, the elements of an offence (actus reus and mens rea), and the categories of crime. They explore how society determines what constitutes criminal behaviour.

This topic examines the powers of police in the criminal investigation process and the rights of suspects. Students evaluate the balance between state power and individual rights.

Students analyse the court hierarchy, the adversary system, and the role of legal personnel. They also evaluate the use of complete and partial defences to criminal charges.

This topic explores the statutory and judicial guidelines for sentencing, the purposes of punishment, and the types of penalties available. Students assess the effectiveness of the penal system.

Students trace the historical development of human rights and the creation of international human rights documents. They examine the universal and inalienable nature of these rights.

This topic evaluates the role of state sovereignty, the United Nations, and international courts in promoting and enforcing human rights. Students analyse the limitations of international law.

Students investigate how human rights are protected in Australia through the Constitution, common law, and statute law. They debate the necessity of an Australian Charter of Rights.

Students explore the purpose of civil law, focusing on negligence, defamation, and contract law. They examine the rights and responsibilities of individuals in civil disputes.

This topic analyses the methods used to resolve civil disputes, including mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and litigation. Students evaluate the accessibility and effectiveness of these mechanisms.

Students investigate contemporary issues in civil law, such as class actions, technological impacts on defamation, and access to justice. They assess how the law adapts to societal changes.

Students examine the concept of world order and the need for global cooperation to address international conflicts. They explore the historical development of international relations.

This topic evaluates the effectiveness of legal and non-legal responses to world order issues, including the UN, international instruments, and non-government organisations.

Students conduct an in-depth study of a contemporary world order issue, such as regional conflicts or the threat of nuclear weapons. They assess the international community's response to the issue.

Students explore the legal definition of family and the legal requirements of marriage and alternative family relationships. They examine the rights and obligations of family members.

This topic investigates the legal processes involved in relationship breakdowns, including divorce, property allocation, and parenting orders. Students evaluate the role of the Family Court.

Students analyse contemporary issues such as domestic violence, surrogacy, and the rights of children. They assess the law's responsiveness to changing societal values regarding the family.