This course examines the general principles of liability under the criminal law and various procedural matters relating to the trial of an accused person. Topics considered include: the legal elements of crime, from the prohibited act to the mental element necessary to constitute guilt; particular emphasis on offences against the person, such as homicides, assaults and sexual offences; reflection on the rationale for punishment; range of defences, from total exoneration to diminished responsibility; general introduction to the criminal justice process; and notions of criminal procedure, evidence and sentencing. This course is taught in an innovative, interactive online format, with regular instructor and classmate interaction. In each section of the course, students do independent reading, review multimedia content in the course website, and communicate with their instructor(s) and fellow students. Regular group work, problem-based learning, practical exercises, and research and writing assignments is required at key points during the course. At the conclusion of the course, students attend exam review sessions in person and write an invigilated final exam.

Pre/anti-requisites

Open only to current and prospective NCA candidates.

Pre-requisite: N/A

Anti-requisite: CCLW 6843: Canadian Criminal Law

NCA equivalence:

Yes - satisfies Canadian Criminal Law competency

Terms Offered

Summer 25

Video conference only

Course Section: A

6.0 credits

Summer 26

6.0 credits

Fall 25

Video conference only

6.0 credits

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