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Computer Applications to Law - LAWS3132 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Description A hands-on introduction to the uses lawyers can make of computer technology, including expert systems (systems that give legal advice), hypertext, free-text retrieval and automated document generation. There is a strong emphasis on the use of these technologies over the Internet. Topics may include: principles and performance measurement of hypertext and free-text retrieval; special problems of legal applications; global systems over the Internet; litigation support and court technologies; computerised representation of legal knowledge; different types of legal expert systems; principles of automated document generators; policy implications for access to law, the delivery of legal services and the rule of law. Examples of the practical uses of each technology are demonstrated and considered critically. Students will design and create their own internet legal resources incuding databases, hypertext, document generators and expert systems using programs provided, and with the world-wide-web as the main development platform. Prior computer knowledge is not required, but some experience in the use of microcomputers, and particularly word processing, is an advantage. Experience in computerised legal research, particularly internet legal research, is desirable. Classes take place in the Faculty Microcomputer Lab and enrolment is therefore limited. The course will be taught by a combination of seminars, internet delivery and computer lab instruction.
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