Medical law is an internationally recognised intellectual discipline and a field of legal practice which is founded on ethical theories, common law doctrines and human rights principles. It spans other areas of law (torts, criminal, family and administrative law) and must satisfy social policy developments, principles of governance, regulatory mechanisms and dispute resolution processes. In this subject, medico-legal issues are discussed and evaluated in the context of a range of topics which include: ethical duties, consent to medical treatment (adults and children), legal competence and medical treatment (adults), human reproduction law and technologies, professional liability and medical malpractice, regulation of health professionals and end of life decision-making. Informed analysis of law is promoted by examining the case law and legislation together with group discussion. Students are equipped with skills relevant to policy developments and law reform.

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