LLAW3270 Introduction to China's Law and Legal System

China has emerged as a major economic power over the last 20 years. What is less well known is that China has also reconstructed its legal system. This topic will introduce you to the history of China's legal system as well as the main institutions of its contemporary legal system. The topic will examine the role and structure of the court system, and the recruitment, training and role of the judiciary, procuracy and legal profession. China's law making process as well as a number of important laws including civil, criminal, administrative and constitutional laws will also be examined.

This topic aims to:

• Introduce the history of China's legal system
• Introduce the main institutions and laws of China's contemporary legal system
• Expose students to China's history and culture that have helped shape its laws and legal system
• Encourage students to think critically about China's legal system and to critically compare it to Australia's
• Enable students to deepen their comparative legal research skills

1. Explain the main features of China's legal history
2. Describe and analyse the key elements of China's contemporary legal institutions and laws
3. Compare and evaluate many of the main differences between China and Australia's legal system
4. Undertake a research project where they deepened their comparative legal research skills