12 Legal Studies

SACE Stage 2: 20 Credits / 2 Semesters / Humanities

SACE Website: https://www.sace.sa.edu.au/en/web/legal-studies

Pre-Requisite: An achievement level of ‘C’ or better in year 11 English and another Humanities subject is highly recommended. Completion of Stage 1 Legal Studies in not required but highly recommended.

SUBJECT OVERVIEW

Stage 2 Legal Studies provides an exploration of the Australian legal system from the local level to its global connections. Students examine the key concepts of parliamentary democracy, constitutional government, and participation. Central to this understanding is the concept that law-making and dispute resolution are social forces that can affect individuals or groups; generate social, economic, or technological change; and cause conflict or inequity within society. The Australian legal system is constantly evolving and has strengths and weaknesses. Students analyse the Australian legal, constitutional, and justice systems and explore the different legal perspectives and priorities held by diverse cultural and interest groups. This includes the extent to which the legal system influences, and is influenced by, Indigenous Australians.

Topics may include

Australia’s legal system
Constitutional government
Law-making
Justice systems

ASSESSMENT

Students are assessed against the SACE performance standards for Stage 2 Legal Studies:

Knowledge and understanding
Inquiry
Analysis and evaluation
Communication

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Legal Studies:

School Assessment

Assessment Type 1: Folio
Assessment Type 2: Inquiry

External Assessment

Assessment Type 3: Examination

Additional Information

Subject fee: A cost of approximately $15.00 per student (subject to approval, subject to change in 2026) for an excursion to the Law Courts.

There is an option to purchase a study guide companion.

Last Updated: July 2025

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