Hazel: A VCE Blog

This area of study is quite similar to the previous one. However, rather than focusing on criminal law, we learnt about civil law. The topic requires us to learn about how civil disputes get resolved -- including where and how. I've heard people in my class saying that the previous area of study, sanctions, was a lot easier. However, my opinion differs. I feel as if there is less to remember in this area of study. What do you think?  Dispute Resolution Methods For a summary of mediation, conciliation and arbitration , click here ! I wrote a summary differentiating the three previously. Dispute Resolution Bodies Tribunals Tribunals are one type of dispute resolution body. They obtain their power from parliament to resolve specific types of civil disputes. Tribunals aim to provide low cost, efficient and quick dispute resolution. While they are similar to courts in the sense that an independent third party will make binding decisions, tribunals are less cos...

The three methods which are used to resolve disputes which are learnt in this area of study are:  Mediation Conciliation Arbitration Initially, I found differentiating these methods to be quite difficult and confusing, as they are very similar to each other -- especially mediation and conciliation. However, with a little effort, I can now recall the differences quite well (if I do say so myself!).  Mediation involves the parties of a dispute negotiating to reach an agreement. An independent third party will be present, who is referred to as a mediator . The mediator, who typically doesn't have specific legal expertise, will attempt to balance the parties while they debate.They will not make the decision for the parties. The resolution which is decided upon by the parties in mediation will typically become legally binding if it becomes a contract referred to as terms of    settlement.  Similarly, in conciliation , an independent third party wi...

Similarly to how I felt with Business Management, I noticed an increase in the difficulty of work with this unit in comparison to the previous one. I noticed it even more so in Legal Studies opposed to Business Management. Area of Study One of the second unit focuses on criminal law and how it imposes sanctions on offenders. Principles of Justice We were introduced to the principles of justice in unit one. They do make a re-occurrence in this area of study also. In case you forgot, they are fairness , equality and access . Fairness relates to that there should be fair legal processes, hearings and trials. This includes ensuring that all decisions made are objective and free of prejudice. The principle of equality states that all people should be treated and viewed as equal by the law regardless of personal characteristics. Lastly, access relates to giving all individuals the ability to understand their legal rights, having the opportunity to use legal facilities and acquir...