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LLB in Criminal Law at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies
Dehradun, Uttarakhand
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About the Specialization
What is Criminal Law at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies Dehradun?
This Criminal Law program at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies focuses on equipping students with a profound understanding of the Indian criminal justice system, encompassing both substantive and procedural aspects. The curriculum integrates traditional legal doctrines with contemporary challenges like cybercrime and organized crime, reflecting the evolving landscape of legal practice in India. It prepares future legal professionals for roles in criminal litigation, prosecution, defence, and legal advisory services.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream with a keen interest in public service, justice, and critical analysis. It also suits individuals aspiring to become public prosecutors, criminal defense lawyers, judicial officers, or those looking to work in law enforcement agencies. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills, a commitment to upholding justice, and a passion for legal advocacy.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths within the Indian legal ecosystem, including roles as advocates, public prosecutors, legal advisors to law enforcement, and judicial service aspirants. Entry-level salaries for fresh LLB graduates in criminal law typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly higher. The program also provides a strong foundation for pursuing advanced studies or contributing to legal reforms in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Legal Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on foundational subjects like Contract Law, Torts, and Constitutional Law. Understand basic legal principles and their interconnections. Create comprehensive notes for easy revision, paying attention to landmark judgments and statutory provisions.
Tools & Resources
Bare Acts, Standard commentaries (e.g., Mulla for Contract, D.D. Basu for Constitution), Legal databases (Manupatra, SCC Online for case laws)
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in competitive exams like the Judiciary and for understanding complex legal issues in advanced subjects, which are critical for effective legal practice.
Cultivate Legal Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in legal research assignments and moot court preparatory activities. Practice precise legal writing, case briefing, and statutory interpretation. Seek regular feedback from faculty members and peers to refine your written and analytical expression.
Tools & Resources
Legal research guides, Plagiarism checkers, Online legal journals, University library resources, Guidance from senior students and faculty mentors
Career Connection
Essential for drafting legal documents, preparing compelling arguments, and conducting thorough research, which are fundamental skills for any legal professional, whether in litigation or corporate roles.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex legal concepts, analyze landmark judgments, and prepare for internal assessments. Actively participate in class discussions and presentations, as teaching peers often reinforces your own understanding and helps clarify doubts.
Tools & Resources
Collaborative online platforms, College library discussion rooms, Faculty office hours for clarifications, Online forums for legal discussions
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, articulation, and teamwork skills vital for courtroom advocacy, client interaction, and professional collaboration within legal teams.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Criminal Law Specialization- (Semester 3-5)
Pay extra attention to Criminal Procedure Code, Penology, Victimology, Law of Evidence, and Cyber Crimes. Explore the practical application of these laws through case studies, simulated court proceedings, and analyzing real-world criminal scenarios.
Tools & Resources
CrPC and Evidence Act commentaries, Online criminal law journals, Mock trials and client counseling sessions, Visits to local courts and prisons (if organized by college)
Career Connection
Directly enhances expertise for roles in prosecution, defense, judicial services, police investigation, and specialized areas like cybercrime investigation and advisory.
Seek Early Practical Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek internships with criminal lawyers, public prosecutors, NGOs working in criminal justice, or law enforcement agencies during semester breaks. Focus on understanding court procedures, client interaction, evidence handling, and legal drafting.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn for professional networking, Personal networking with legal professionals, Legal aid clinics and court attachment programs
Career Connection
Gaining practical experience is invaluable for building a professional network, understanding courtroom dynamics, developing practical skills, and significantly enhancing employability in the legal field.
Participate in Moot Court Competitions and Debates- (Semester 3-5)
Engage actively in national and international moot court competitions, debates, and judgment writing contests. These sharpen your advocacy, research, and analytical skills, which are crucial for a successful criminal lawyer. Seek mentorship from faculty and seniors.
Tools & Resources
Moot court societies and clubs, Faculty mentors and legal experts, Previous moot court propositions and memorials, Online platforms for legal debates
Career Connection
An excellent platform to develop confidence, oral advocacy, legal reasoning, and presentation skills, all highly valued in litigation roles and judicial competitive examinations.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Bar and Judicial Services Exams- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for competitive exams like the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) and State Judicial Services. Focus on previous year papers, mock tests, and comprehensive revision of all core and specialization subjects. Consider specialized coaching if needed.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if desired), Online test series and mock exams, Comprehensive guides for AIBE and Judiciary exams, Bare Acts and concise notes for quick revision
Career Connection
Directly leads to obtaining a license to practice law (AIBE) and facilitates entry into the esteemed judicial services or public prosecution roles, which are highly respected career paths in India.
Undertake Specialized Research and Dissertation/Project- (Semester 6)
Undertake a comprehensive dissertation or research project in a specific area of criminal law that aligns with your career interests (e.g., white-collar crime, cyber forensics, victim rights, human rights in criminal justice). This showcases deep expertise and analytical ability.
Tools & Resources
Faculty supervisor and research guides, Advanced legal databases and research software, Research methodology workshops, Field visits and expert interviews for primary data
Career Connection
Showcases expertise, critical thinking, and advanced research capabilities, which are valuable for advanced academic pursuits (LLM, PhD), specialized legal roles, or policy advisory positions.
Networking and Strategic Career Planning- (Semester 6)
Actively network with legal professionals, alumni, and faculty members through seminars, workshops, and conferences. Attend placement drives and career counseling sessions. Refine your resume, cover letter, and interview skills for targeted job applications in your desired field.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network and professional associations, LinkedIn for professional connections, University''''s career services cell, Professional development workshops and mock interviews
Career Connection
Opens doors to placement opportunities, mentorship, and helps in strategic career trajectory planning in the dynamic Indian legal market, ensuring a smoother transition from academia to professional practice.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Minimum 50% marks in Graduation in any stream
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 144 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLBP 2001 | Law of Contract I | Core | 4 | Formation of Contract, Offer and Acceptance, Consideration, Capacity to Contract, Free Consent, Legality of Object |
| SLBP 2002 | Law of Torts and Consumer Protection | Core | 4 | General Principles of Torts, Specific Torts, Defences, Vicarious Liability, Consumer Protection Act |
| SLBP 2003 | Law of Crimes I | Core | 4 | Elements of Crime, General Principles of Criminal Law, Indian Penal Code (IPC) - General Explanations, Punishments, General Exceptions |
| SLBP 2004 | Constitutional Law I | Core | 4 | Nature of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Citizenship, Union and State Executive |
| SLBP 2005 | Family Law I (Hindu Law) | Core | 4 | Sources of Hindu Law, Hindu Marriage Act, Hindu Succession Act, Adoption and Maintenance Act, Guardianship |
| SLBP 2006 | Legal Methods and Research | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Nature and Sources of Law, Legal Research Methods, Case Analysis, Statutory Interpretation, Legal Writing Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLBP 2007 | Law of Contract II | Core | 4 | Specific Contracts (Indemnity, Guarantee, Bailment, Pledge, Agency), Sale of Goods Act, Indian Partnership Act, Negotiable Instruments Act, Consumer Protection |
| SLBP 2008 | Environmental Law | Core | 4 | Concept of Environmental Pollution, Constitutional Provisions, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, Environmental Protection Act, Wildlife Protection Act |
| SLBP 2009 | Law of Crimes II | Core | 4 | IPC - Offences Against Human Body, IPC - Offences Against Property, Offences Against Women, White Collar Crimes, Cyber Crimes, Theories of Punishment |
| SLBP 2010 | Constitutional Law II | Core | 4 | Union and State Legislature, The Judiciary, Emergency Provisions, Amendment of the Constitution, Centre-State Relations |
| SLBP 2011 | Family Law II (Muslim Law) | Core | 4 | Sources of Muslim Law, Muslim Marriage (Nikah), Dower, Divorce, Maintenance, Wakf and Wills |
| SLBP 2012 | Professional Ethics and Accountability | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Advocates Act 1961, Bar Council of India Rules, Professional Misconduct, Contempt of Court, Accountability of Lawyers |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLBP 2013 | Administrative Law | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Administrative Law, Delegated Legislation, Administrative Tribunals, Principles of Natural Justice, Judicial Review of Administrative Actions |
| SLBP 2014 | Jurisprudence | Core | 4 | Schools of Jurisprudence, Sources of Law, Rights and Duties, Possession and Ownership, Legal Personality |
| SLBP 2015 | Criminal Procedure Code I | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Introduction to CrPC, Constitution of Criminal Courts, Arrest of Persons, Search and Seizure, Information to the Police and FIR |
| SLBP 2016 | Law of Evidence | Core | 4 | Indian Evidence Act, 1872, Relevancy of Facts, Admissions and Confessions, Dying Declaration, Witnesses and Examination, Burden of Proof |
| SLBP 30XX | General Elective I | General Elective | 4 | |
| SLBP 2017 | Interpretation of Statutes | Core | 4 | Principles of Interpretation, Internal and External Aids to Interpretation, Presumptions in Interpretation, Construction of Penal and Taxing Statutes, Harmonious Construction |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLBP 2018 | Labour Law I | Core | 4 | Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, Trade Unions Act, 1926, Factories Act, 1948, Standing Orders, Collective Bargaining |
| SLBP 2019 | Law of Taxation I | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Income Tax, Residential Status, Heads of Income, Deductions from Gross Total Income, Assessment Procedure |
| SLBP 2020 | Criminal Procedure Code II | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Bail and Anticipatory Bail, Charge, Trial Procedures (Summons, Warrant, Sessions), Judgment, Appeals, Revision, and Reference |
| SLBP 2021 | Penology and Victimology | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Theories of Punishment, Prison Reforms, Open Prisons, Victim Rights, Compensation to Victims, Restorative Justice |
| SLBP 30XX | General Elective II | General Elective | 4 | |
| SLBP 2022 | Public International Law | Core | 4 | Sources of International Law, Recognition of States, State Responsibility, Law of Treaties, International Humanitarian Law |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLBP 2023 | Code of Civil Procedure I | Core | 4 | Introduction to CPC, Jurisdiction of Courts, Res Sub-judice and Res Judicata, Pleadings, Parties to Suit |
| SLBP 2024 | Property Law | Core | 4 | Transfer of Property Act, 1882, Sale and Mortgage, Lease and Exchange, Gift, Easements, General Principles of Property Law |
| SLBP 2025 | Cyber Crimes and Laws | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Introduction to Cyber Crime, Information Technology Act, 2000, Digital Signatures and Electronic Records, Cyber Terrorism, Data Protection and Privacy |
| SLBP 2026 | Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Science, DNA Fingerprinting, Ballistics and Fingerprints, Questioned Documents, Crime Scene Investigation Techniques |
| SLBP 30XX | Skill Enhancement Course I | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | |
| SLBP 2027 | Arbitration, Conciliation and ADR | Core | 4 | Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, Types of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Mediation and Negotiation, Lok Adalats, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLBP 2028 | Code of Civil Procedure II | Core | 4 | Execution of Decrees, Appeals, Review, and Revision, Injunctions, Interlocutory Orders, Suits by or against Government |
| SLBP 2029 | Company Law | Core | 4 | Types of Companies, Incorporation of Companies, Shares and Debentures, Directors and Meetings, Winding Up of Companies, Corporate Governance |
| SLBP 2030 | Specific Crimes and Organised Crimes | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Specific offences under IPC (e.g., Dowry Death, Acid Attacks), Organised Crime Syndicates, Terrorism and Anti-Terror Laws, Money Laundering and PMLA, Drug Trafficking (NDPS Act) |
| SLBP 2031 | Juvenile Justice and Probation | Specialization Course (Criminal Law) | 4 | Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, Child in Conflict with Law, Children in Need of Care and Protection, Probation of Offenders Act, Restorative Justice for Juveniles |
| SLBP 30XX | Skill Enhancement Course II | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | |
| SLBP 2032 | Internship / Dissertation / Project | Project/Internship | 4 | Practical Legal Training, Research Methodology, Report Writing, Legal Practice, Case Studies |
