Module Code - Title:
LA4040
-
LAW OF EVIDENCE
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The aim of this module is to critically examine the rules and general principles governing the admissibility of evidence in criminal trials.
Syllabus:
Principles of criminal evidence; burdens and standards of proof; witness testimony; confession evidence and illegally obtained evidence; expert evidence; corroboration; rule against hearsay; identification evidence; similar fact evidence; privilege.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to:
Differentiate between key concepts in the Law of Evidence: facts at issue; relevant facts; admissibility of evidence and weight of evidence; hearsay and original evidence;
Describe the principles relating to the burden of proof, the standard of proof and reversal of burdens of proof;
Explain the law and principles relating to witness testimony, challenging the credibility of the witness, corroboration rules and the Rule against Hearsay.
Analyse the exclusionary rules relating to illegally obtained and unconstitutionally obtained evidence and the law relating to the testimony of the accused in a criminal trial;
Apply the rules and principles to scenarios so as to demonstrate the possibilities for conviction or acquittal.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to: Evaluate the role of the law on evidence in achieving justice in the criminal justice system.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
n/a
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
This research-led module will be delivered by experts in their field. Full use of technology will facilitate the delivery of online lectures in addition to live question and answer sessions. This mode of delivery allows for a flexible, student-centred approach. The tutorials (typically involving problem-based learning) will facilitate interaction and collaboration between students and faculty. This challenge driven style of tutorial is designed to foster curiosity, and build both problem solving skills and student confidence to articulate.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Fennell (2020)
The Law of Evidence in Ireland
, Bloomsbury
Heffernan (2020)
Evidence in Criminal Trials
, Bloomsbury
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BLLAWSUEA - LAWS
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Spring
Module Leader:
Catherine.McLoone@ul.ie