Ayoade Onireti

Dear Students, 

Welcome to LAW7039 - Dissertation Module 

The tutor for this course is Dr Ayoade Onireti (Ayo).

This module allows candidates to undertake an extended and substantial piece of research, synthesize the academic knowledge acquired from LLM modules, and produce an evaluative and critical discussion of salient issues. The dissertation follows the completion of the research methods module, which is a prerequisite for the commencement of the dissertation. After receiving feedback from the second research methods assignment, you will undertake the data gathering either by fieldwork desk research or some combination of both, evaluate and synthesize the findings and present them clearly. You will also present a set of conclusions drawn from the findings.

This module is designed to examine the system of criminal law in England and Wales and how it has developed through case law and legislation. The module aims to enable you to understand the main legal developments which have shaped the current system. It also introduces students to the aims, principles, and scope of criminal law in England and Wales. To achieve this, you will study the main elements of crime, the two offences that constitute homicide, sexual offences, property offences, and the defences available to a defendant in a criminal trial. The subject is largely based on the case law of England & Wales, but it also includes important statutory provisions and, increasingly, demands an awareness of the impact of the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights, Human rights, and the law of Evidence. What this means in effect is that this module will allow you to understand some important elements of these law subject areas. 

Being a core and dynamic subject, occupying a central position within the English Legal system, you will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge and understanding of a core legal subject. The module is also designed to enable you to develop your research skills, problem-solving skills, and independent study skills. The module will demonstrate analytical skills through the examination and application of principles of law to a wide range of criminal situations.