Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2022 - 2023
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Description The rules of evidence which apply in the Irish courts have evolved over generations, and continue to evolve. Both the courts, and increasingly the legislature, have played a role in determining these rules. This module aims to acquaint students with the rules of evidence, their origins and the context of their development, and to equip students with sufficient substantive knowledge and contextual information to allow them to critique the ongoing need for these rules, and the potential for the recognition of further rules of evidence. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. describe the function of the law of evidence in legal proceedings; 2. outline the basic principles of the law of evidence; 3. outline and appraise the rules of evidence and demonstrate knowledge of relevant case law and legislation; 4. solve hypothetical evidentiary problems with reference to case law and legislation; 5. critique the rules of evidence in terms of their development and ongoing significance. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and
Learning Activities Introduction to Fact Finding and Principles of Proof – purpose, origins and development of rules of evidence; function of judge and jury; standard and burden of proof; witness systemCompetence and Compellability – the accused; spouse of the accused; persons with disabilities; children and vulnerable witnesses – important changes overCorroboration – Why is certain evidence seen as weak?; accomplice evidence; children s evidence; ID evidence; confessionImproperly Obtained Evidence – differences in approach in Ireland, England and Wales, and United States; unconstitutionally obtained evidence; illegally obtainedOpinion Evidence – expert evidence; DNA evidenceRule Against Hearsay – basis of the rule; exceptions to the rule; new legislative exception – prior witness statementsSimilar Fact Evidence – admissibility of evidence of past bad behaviour of accusedThe Accused as a Witness and the Criminal Justice (Evidence) Act, 1924 – loss of the shield; difference of approach in Ireland and England and WalesPrivilege – sacerdotal; legal/professional; without prejudice communications; public privilege | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources 38573, Moodle, 0, Lecture notes and links to relevant journal articles, case-law and websites will be available on the DCU Moodle page for this module, 38574, Journals, 0, Students should also regularly refer to relevant journals, such as the Irish Criminal Law Journal, the Judicial Studies Institute Journal, and the International Journal of Evidence and Proof, 38575, Electronic Sources, 0, Some useful electronic resources are: Justis, WestLaw IE, FirstLaw, LexisNexis, www.bailii.org, www.irishstatutebook.ie, www.lawreform.ie, www.courts.ie, www.echr.coe.int, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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