PFD320 - Civil Law for Law Enforcement

Subject Title
Civil Law for Law Enforcement

Subject Description
Both criminal and civil law have common evolutionary roots. As the English common law system developed, the law evolved into two main streams: private and public law. This course looks at the similarities and differences between these main streams, which are generally known as criminal law and civil law. They are compared and contrasted with respect to their different principles and purposes.The course begins with a discussion of the common law system as it exists today. Emphasis is on the sources of the law: statutes, regulations and jurisprudence. The core concept of precedent is explained. The common roots that lead to many structural and procedural similarities are examined, as are the differences, especially in procedure and proof. The court system is examined and compared with the criminal system.The course moves on to cover the basic principles of those areas of civil law of primary interest to law enforcement students. These include tort liability for civil wrongs, family and matrimonial law, landlord and tenant law, purchase and sale of real property, and the operation of the Small Claims Court.

Credit Status
This is a Police Foundations program prescribed credit.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Explain the primary components of Civil and Criminal Law.

2. Describe the different standards of proof in Civil and Criminal law.

3. Comprehend the areas of Civil Law most likely to be encountered by Law Enforcement Officers in execution of their duties.

4.  Explain the principles of Tort Law, its categories, liabilities, tests, and remedies.

5. Understand the various forms that are used in civil litigation.

6. Comprehend the formation of Family Unit; the dissolution of Marriage and Common Law Relationships; separation and divorce; access and custody; spousal and child support; and Net Family Asset issues.

7. Describe the basic principles of Land Ownership, purchase agreements, mortgages, and sale.

8. Explain the individual obligations of the Landlord and Tenant, rent, lease, and termination of the lease, according to the Residential Tenancies Act of Ontario.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.