Course Summary
New ways of approaching traditional legal problems are being introduced into Australian civil and criminal justice systems. These new methods are underpinned by theories of procedural justice, restorative justice and therapeutic jurisprudence, and by the availability of new technology. New strategies to address access to justice, appropriate dispute resolution and the rise of self-represented litigants are also emerging. An understanding of the development of legal policy and the role policy can play in law reform is valuable when considering innovation in the justice system. The course will explore research methods that provide analysis of data to engage with law reform. You will conduct a research project to explore the ways innovations are developed in the Australian Justice System and critically engage with issues of legal principle and policy central to developing innovative solutions to justice challenges. The course will require you to undertake research of a postgraduate standard and further develop your skills in legal methodology.