Legal Studies

Humanities

VCE

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VCE Legal Studies examines the institutions and principles that are essential to the Australian legal system. Students develop an understanding of the rule of law, law-makers, legal institutions, the relationship between the people and the Australian Constitution, the protection of rights in Australia, and the Victorian justice system.

Through applying knowledge of legal concepts and principles to a range of actual and / or hypothetical scenarios, students develop an ability to use legal reasoning to argue a case for or against a party in a civil or criminal matter. They develop an appreciation of the ability of people to actively seek to influence changes in the law and analyse both the extent to which our legal institutions are effective, and whether the Victorian justice system achieves the principles of justice.

This study enables students to:

  • understand and apply legal terminology, principles and concepts
  • apply legal principles to actual and/or hypothetical scenarios, explore solutions to legal problems, and form reasoned conclusions
  • analyse the institutions that make laws and understand the way in which individuals can engage in and influence law reform
  • understand legal rights and responsibilities, and the effectiveness of the protection of rights in Australia
  • analyse the methods and institutions that determine criminal cases and resolve civil disputes
  • examine the ability of features of the criminal and civil justice systems to achieve the principles of justice.

Assessment activities

  • a folio of exercises
  • an oral or digital presentation, such as a podcast or video
  • a Wiki, website or blog
  • structured questions
  • a mock trial or role play
  • a debate
  • a research report or media analysis
  • an essay
  • a question-and-answer session
  • a case study
  • exams.

Selection advice

This study suits students interested in exploring everyday issues such as dealing with the police and courts, solving consumer complaints with traders, victims’ rights, and deciding whether to sue for compensation when problems occur. It also involves investigating how politicians are elected and how they make new laws on our behalf. Reading and discussing media reports on a variety of criminal and civil cases is an important aspect of this subject.

Links to further pathways

VCE Legal Studies equips students with an ability to research and analyse legal information and apply legal reasoning and decision-making skills. It also fosters critical thinking to solve legal problems. Further study in the legal field can lead to a broad range of career opportunities such as a solicitor, barrister, policy adviser, prosecutor, paralegal, legal assistant, as well as other careers in the courtroom, education and law enforcement.