Intensive Criminal Law (Serbin)

Course Number
LAW 3532
Course Description

The objective of Intensive Criminal Law is to introduce students to the procedural aspects of criminal law from the initial charge through to sentencing. The course also is concerned with the ways in which the values and principles governing criminal law are reflected in these procedures, as well as with the development of negotiation and advocacy skills transferable to all areas of general litigation.

The students will be given fact situations and through discussions and simulation exercises they will cover a number of aspects of the criminal law process.  These may include areas such as: bail applications, plea bargaining, speaking to sentence, effective written and oral communication techniques, issues of admissibility of statements, ethical issues and/or how to manage client expectations.  Students also will engage in an analysis of the principles set out in sections 493.2 and 718.2(e) of the Criminal Code of Canada and the Supreme Court cases of Gladue and Ipeelee.

ENROLLMENT: LIMITED TO 18.

Teaching Method

The course will be a weekly 3 hour session in 2nd term totaling 3 credits. A seminar format will be used with discussion and case presentation.

TERM WORK REQUIRED: Students will be expected to prepare for a number of practical exercises and present their work in class. Attendance at seminars is compulsory.

Assessment

There will be a number of assignments focusing on but not necessarily limited to in-class practical exercises.
Grading: Pass/Fail

Course Materials

Pocket Criminal Code, Moot Problems, Additional Readings as assigned.

Instructor