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Unit of Study LAWS2016 - Evidence (2026)

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Unit Snapshot

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Unit description

Introduces and examines the general principles of the rules of evidence and the application of those rules in the determination of civil and criminal disputes. Considers the sources and acceptability of evidence, the burden and standards of proof, and the rules concerning hearsay admissions and confessions, illegally obtained evidence and res gestae. Critically examines the effectiveness of these principles in achieving their objectives in the legal system.

Unit content

Module 1: Introduction to Evidence – Relevance

Module 2: Burden and standard of proof, competence and compellability

Module 3: Specific "rules" of exclusion

Module 4: Discretions, duties to exclude, prejudicial evidence, judicial warnings, corroboration

Module 5: Privilege, character and credibility evidence

Module 6: Cross examination, vulnerable witnesses, documents and real evidence.

Availabilities

Location Domestic International
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Online
Term1
Term1

Learning outcomes

Unit Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a unit. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes. The unit learning outcomes and graduate attributes are also the basis of evaluating prior learning.

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

identify and evaluate the criteria by which common law and legislation in Australian jurisdictions admit or reject evidence

explain and evaluate the use to be made of evidence in civil and criminal proceedings

distinguish and evaluate the different burdens of proof which apply to civil and criminal proceedings

apply applicable legal principles to specific factual circumstances and synthesise responses which are appropriate in a legal professional environment and which demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of the issues.

Prescribed learning resources

Prescribed Texts
  • Students do not have to purchase a prescribed textbook for this unit as they will have access to the following via SCU Library:: Heydon, JD, 1991, Cross on Evidence, 2 volumes (loose leaf), LexisNexis, Australia.
Prescribed Resources/Equipment

  • Access to a computer with a webcam and reliable internet connection.  Students will be required to complete an onboarding process to verify their identity before attempting the online exam in this unit.

Prescribed Learning Resources may change in future Teaching Periods.