Course Catalogue

Justice Studies

This module aims to introduce students to the legislative, substantive policy provisions and practice which underpin (i) the multifaceted and complex roles and duties executed by the police across England and Wales; and (ii) the criminal law commonly utilised and applied by Police Officers in the course of their duty. Specifically, the module aims to: Introduce and examine the role, responsibilities and powers of the police in differing societal and operational environments. Provide a critical introduction to the foundations of criminal law and the criminal justice system. Identify the key ingredients of a criminal offence, the varying liability of third parties, and common defences prescribed by criminal law. Highlight the importance of police integrity and the role played by police officers in the successful application of criminal law sanctions. Introduce the theoretical and procedural requirements relating to police duties and the criminal law, whilst also providing an innovative learning framework through which students can explore, experience and illustrate criminal conduct in varying operational settings.

Outline Syllabus:The Outline Syllabus is subject to amendment so that it remains current and in line with the requirements of the College of Policing. Police Duties: Legal Foundations to Police Duties Powers of Arrest Stop and Search Entry, Search and Seizure Use of force Weapons Offences against the Person Non Fraudulent Property Offences (including Robbery, Theft, Offences involving theft of or from vehicles, Theft, Burglary, Going Equipped etc) Public Order and Anti-Social Behaviour Criminal Damage Firearms Road Traffic Offences Drink Drive Offences and Procedure Basic Principals of Criminal Law: Introduction to Criminal Law The Criminal Courts Elements of a Criminal Offence Criminal Liability and Degrees of Liability Inchoate, Participation and Incomplete Offences Criminal Law Defences

Module Overview:
This module aims to introduce you to the role, responsibilities and powers of the police in differing societal and operational environments. The module provides you with a critical introduction to the foundations of criminal law and the criminal justice system. You will identify the key ingredients of a criminal offence, the varying liability of third parties, and common defences prescribed by criminal law, highlighting the importance of police integrity and the role played by police officers in the successful application of criminal law sanctions.

Additional Information:The module has regard to the National Occupational Standards - Units CD5/GC10/CD1/CK1 & CK2 http://www.accreditedqualifications.org.uk/qualifications-and-credit-framework-qcf.html The module aims to introduce students to aspects of the criminal law and police powers and to develop their understanding. Students will be able to identify, and critically appraise the extent of these laws and powers. The module will explore relevant legislation, policy and practice guidance. Students will be encouraged to acknowledge the continual evolvement and situational nature of applied criminal law. Through the analysis of critical incidents students will develop an understanding of good practice in relation to varying police powers, identifying the wide range of powers and actions at their disposal when executing police duties. Students will be introduced to the criminal law, policy, practice developments and cutting edge research from a range of disciplines relating to the exercising of police powers. The module will have a specific focus on ensuring that students can work safely and lawfully in a policing environment. The assessments will enable students to develop a sound understanding of the principle of criminal law, policy and procedural guidance and the wider social context.