Course Description

Torts I (together with Torts II) examines the rules of law by which liability for civil wrongs is imposed. Tort law examines a wide range of topics that are closely relevant to fundamental human rights, including bodily integrity and property rights. Tort law also provides an important mechanism to engage with the use of public power (such as the action for false imprisonment and the action for negligence) and address potential corruption issues (such as in the action for misfeasance in public office). Both common law and statutory schemes are considered, including defences, remedies and the assessment of damages, with a view to promoting the rule of law.

Course Content

This course (together with Torts II as part of the full first year course of study) will introduce students to the rules and processes of law which impose liability for civil wrongs including:

• 1. Historical Background and Contemporary Issues*
• 2. Intentional Torts*
• 3. Negligence
• 4. Strict Liability Torts, including Liability for Animals and Breach of Statutory Duty*
• 5. Vicarious Liability and Non-Delegable Duty*
• 6. Remedies and Assessment of Damages
• 7. Overview of Non-Tortious Compensation Schemes
• 8. Remedies
• 9. Assessment of Damages
• 10.Parties

Items marked with an asterisk * are those covered in detail in Torts I.