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Unit of study_
LAWS5127: Death and Inheritance Law
2026 unit information
This unit covers the law that governs the transmission of property rights on the death the holder of those property rights to other persons. The unit begins with an overview of succession law in Australia; looking at testamentary freedom in its historical context and the development of powers of testation. The unit then considers the modern family relationships for succession; the boundaries of the law of succession (dealing with such matters as nominations, donationes mortis causa and contracts involving wills); the legal fact of death; intestate succession, the law of wills, family provision legislation and some aspects of the administration of deceased estates. Students who wish to practise in the area of succession law are encouraged to consider studying this unit, because the matters covered are indispensable for a career in succession, property and inheritance. From a pedagogical perspective, the unit aims to impart an understanding of key succession law principles and their practical application in problem-solving. Additionally, the unit aims to equip students with the tools to critically evaluate and make normative assessments regarding the operation of succession law in context.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Sydney Law School
| Study level | Postgraduate |
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| Academic unit | Law |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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LAWS3427 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Evaluate and integrate detailed knowledge of inheritance law rules and principles from cases, statutes, and secondary sources.
- LO2. Identify and critically analyse relevant inheritance law rules and principles and apply those rules and principles to novel fact situations to reach well-reasoned conclusions.
- LO3. Communicate reasoned and persuasive analyses of inheritance law issues to diverse audiences using discipline-appropriate language and conventions.
- LO4. Critically reflect on ethical responsibilities and decision-making in inheritance law practice.
Unit availability
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