« Back to Legal Studies
Legal Studies covers a broad range of topics and aims to provide an understanding of the role of law in society and the basic processes and principles of the New Zealand legal system. Legal Studies explores and evaluates the ability of the legal system to provide just outcomes for all individuals and groups, giving ākonga a better understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities. Ākonga will develop an appreciation of how the legal system impacts on their lives and how they can influence and change it. This subject can lead to a range of possible careers including the legal profession, business, government service or agencies.
In this Legal Studies course, ākonga explore law as an integral aspect of society and find out how laws are made and applied in everyday life. Ākonga consider why laws are developed and the characteristics of an effective law.
Ākonga are able to demonstrate an understanding of the New Zealand court system, the law making process, and how New Zealanders vote for an MMP government. Other major areas of law covered include concepts of democracy and government such as rule of law, separation of powers and civil liberties, and different concepts of justice, such as coercive power and impartiality.
No prior learning needed.
| Standard | Description | Version | Credits | Assessment | L1 Lit/Num | UE Lit/Num | Vocational Pathways |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1978 | Describe basic employment rights and responsibilities, and sources of information and/or assistance | 9 | 3 | Internal | |||
| 8548 | Demonstrate knowledge of assessing legal assistance | 6 | 3 | Internal | SoSocial and Community Services recommended standard |
||
| 27835 | Demonstrate understanding of concepts of democracy and government | 2 | 4 | Internal | |||
| 27838 | Demonstrate understanding of foundational concepts of justice | 2 | 4 | Internal | |||
| 27841 | Demonstrate understanding of concepts of law | 2 | 4 | Internal | |||
| 27844 | Demonstrate understanding of litigation and dispute resolution processes in New Zealand | 2 | 4 | Internal | |||
| 27847 | Demonstrate understanding of law making processes | 2 | 4 | Internal | |||
| 27850 | Demonstrate understanding of New Zealand’s system of government and its formation and operation | 2 | 4 | Internal |