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Contracts (LAWS50029)
Graduate coursework level 5Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
Contact information
Semester 2
Teaching staff:
Wayne Jocic (Subject Coordinator)
For current student enquiries, contact the Law School Academic Support Office
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject studies:
- the content of contracts;
- the termination of contracts; and
- invalidating factors in contract formation.
The study of contract builds on the foundations laid in LAWS50026 Obligations. It covers express terms (and their interpretation) and implied terms. The study of termination includes termination for breach, for failure of condition, and by frustration, and touches on the proprietary consequences of contracts. The study of invalidating factors includes misinformation (mistake, misrepresentation, misleading conduct), abuse of power (duress, undue influence, third party impropriety, unconscionable dealing, and unconscionable conduct) and illegality.
Intended learning outcomes
The aim of this subject is for students to develop a comprehensive understanding of the foundations of the law of contract through close reading of cases, statutes and scholarly writing, and through participation in class discussion. On completion of the subject, students should have a sound understanding of the law relating to the identification and interpretation of contract terms, and the grounds on which a contract can be rescinded or terminated, and will be able to:
- critically analyse and challenge the basis of relevant contract law decisions.
- develop creative arguments about how the relevant principles could be applied to novel fact situations.
- identify relevant principles in cases and statutes.
- evaluate relevant principles and analyse particular problems from a range of theoretical or comparative perspectives.
- apply those principles to particular fact situations to reach well-reasoned conclusions about parties' rights and obligations.
Generic skills
On completion of the subject, students should have developed the following skills:
- The capacity for close reading and critical analysis of a range of sources relevant to contract law;
- The capacity for critical, independent and creative thought and reflection on the role and function of contract law;
- The capacity to solve complex problems related to contract law, including through the collection, analysis and evaluation of information; and
- The capacity to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Last updated: 18 August 2024