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B-A-LL-B-HONS in General at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)

Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) is a premier Deemed University located in Chennai. Established in 1992, VISTAS offers a wide range of programs across diverse disciplines, known for its academic strength and focus on industry-relevant education. It is recognized for its placements and infrastructure.

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Chennai, Tamil Nadu

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About the Specialization

What is General at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?

This B.A. LL.B (Hons) program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on providing a comprehensive, integrated legal education. It blends humanities subjects with core legal principles, fostering a holistic understanding of law and its societal impact. The curriculum is designed to produce ethically sound and professionally competent legal professionals, addressing the evolving demands of the Indian legal landscape.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for ambitious fresh graduates seeking an early entry into the legal profession with an interdisciplinary foundation. It caters to students passionate about social justice, public service, corporate law, or litigation. Individuals aiming for judicial services, civil services, or a career in legal academia in India will find this program particularly suitable, emphasizing critical thinking and legal analysis.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as advocates, legal advisors in corporate firms, civil servants, or judicial officers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The rigorous curriculum and practical training prepare students for success in Indian courts, legal departments of MNCs, and various government agencies.

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Specialization

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Legal English and Communication- (Semester 1-2)

Dedicate consistent time to developing strong legal vocabulary, grammar, and formal writing skills. Participate actively in Legal English classes and join debate clubs. This foundation is crucial for drafting clear legal documents and persuasive arguments in the Indian legal context.

Tools & Resources

Black''''s Law Dictionary, Legal English textbooks, Newspapers with legal reporting (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), Online legal writing guides

Career Connection

Exceptional legal communication is non-negotiable for success in litigation, corporate law, and legal journalism, directly impacting your ability to excel in internships and future employment.

Build a Strong Academic Foundation in Core Subjects- (Semester 1-2)

Focus intensely on understanding fundamental concepts in Law of Torts, Contract Law, and Constitutional Law. Attend all lectures, engage in peer study groups, and regularly review case laws and statutory provisions. Utilize library resources extensively for in-depth understanding.

Tools & Resources

Bare Acts, Standard legal commentaries (e.g., Ratanlal & Dhirajlal on Torts), Online legal databases (e.g., Manupatra, SCC Online - if institutional access is provided), Study groups

Career Connection

A solid grasp of foundational law is essential for all legal specializations and is heavily tested in competitive exams like judicial services and NET, setting the stage for advanced learning and career readiness.

Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning and Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)

Actively connect legal principles with concepts from Political Science, Sociology, and Economics. Participate in discussions, write analytical essays, and approach legal problems from multiple perspectives. This helps in understanding the socio-economic context of law in India.

Tools & Resources

Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Interdisciplinary seminars and workshops, Reading current affairs extensively, Critical thinking exercises

Career Connection

Developing a holistic understanding enhances problem-solving abilities, crucial for policy-making, public interest litigation, and navigating complex corporate legal issues in India.

Intermediate Stage

Participate Actively in Moot Court Competitions- (Semester 3-5)

Join the moot court society and participate in both intra and inter-college competitions. Focus on honing research, memorial drafting, and oral advocacy skills. This is a crucial practical exposure for aspiring litigators and researchers in India.

Tools & Resources

Moot court guides, Legal databases for case research, Guidance from faculty and senior students, Online videos of international moot courts

Career Connection

Mooting builds confidence, analytical prowess, and presentation skills highly valued by law firms and in courtrooms, significantly boosting your profile for internships and job interviews.

Seek and Complete Quality Internships- (Semester 3-5)

Actively pursue internships during semester breaks with advocates, law firms, NGOs, and corporate legal departments. Document your experiences, learn courtroom procedures, legal research, and drafting. Focus on understanding the practical application of law in India.

Tools & Resources

University career services, Online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala, Lawctopus), Networking with alumni and professionals, Maintaining a detailed internship diary

Career Connection

Internships are paramount for gaining practical experience, building professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers in the Indian legal industry.

Develop Specialized Legal Research Skills- (Semester 3-5)

Go beyond basic textbook reading. Learn to use advanced legal databases effectively for case law, statutes, and journal articles. Focus on identifying relevant precedents and critically analyzing legal propositions. This is vital for academic projects and future legal practice.

Tools & Resources

Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis (institutional subscriptions), Research methodology workshops, Advanced legal writing courses, Guidance from faculty on research topics

Career Connection

Strong research skills are a cornerstone for excelling in legal academia, corporate legal roles, and high-stakes litigation, making you an invaluable asset to any legal team.

Advanced Stage

Focus on Practical Application and Clinical Legal Education- (Semester 6-8)

Engage deeply in clinical legal programs, legal aid clinics, and pro bono work. This includes client interviewing, counselling, drafting real-world legal documents, and understanding court procedures. Gain exposure to ethical practice and community service, crucial for Indian lawyers.

Tools & Resources

Legal Aid Centres, NGO collaborations, University''''s clinical programs, Case studies of real legal problems

Career Connection

Hands-on experience in clinical settings enhances employability by demonstrating practical competence, ethical understanding, and readiness to handle real cases, preparing you for the demands of the Indian legal profession.

Prepare Strategically for Competitive Exams- (Semester 6-8)

If aiming for judicial services, civil services, or LL.M admissions, begin dedicated preparation. Identify specific syllabi, join coaching (if desired), and practice previous year''''s question papers. Focus on current affairs and general knowledge relevant to Indian legal and administrative exams.

Tools & Resources

Coaching institutes for JRF/NET/Judiciary, Previous year question papers, Online mock test series, Current affairs magazines and newspapers

Career Connection

Early and systematic preparation significantly increases your chances of securing prestigious positions in the Indian judiciary, civil services, or gaining admission to top LL.M programs, opening diverse and impactful career avenues.

Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Semester 6-8)

Attend legal seminars, conferences, and workshops. Network with alumni, legal professionals, and faculty. Actively engage on platforms like LinkedIn. Develop a clear career vision and tailor your skills and experiences to achieve it, focusing on opportunities within India''''s legal market.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, Professional legal associations (e.g., Bar Associations), University career fairs, Mentorship programs

Career Connection

A strong professional network is invaluable for job referrals, mentorship, and career growth, providing a significant edge in securing desired placements and establishing yourself in the Indian legal community.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • A Pass in Higher Secondary Course (10+2) or equivalent with minimum of 45% marks for General category, 42% marks for OBC category and 40% marks for SC / ST category in aggregate.

Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years

Credits: 236 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL101Legal English ICore4Fundamentals of Legal English, Vocabulary and Usage, Sentence Structure in Legal Context, Legal Drafting Basics, Communication Skills for Lawyers
U22BLL102Law of TortsCore4General Principles of Tortious Liability, Defences to Torts, Specific Torts: Negligence, Defamation, Nuisance, Vicarious Liability, Strict and Absolute Liability
U22BLL103Political Science ICore4Political Theory and Concepts, State and Sovereignty, Forms of Government, Justice, Equality, Liberty, Constitutions and Constitutionalism
U22BLL104Sociology ICore4Basic Sociological Concepts, Social Institutions (Family, Education), Social Stratification and Mobility, Theories of Social Change, Sociology of Law
U22BLL105Economics ICore4Principles of Microeconomics, Demand and Supply Analysis, Market Structures, National Income Accounting, Economic Systems
U22BLL106Computer ApplicationsSkill Based2Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and Email Basics, Data Management Fundamentals, Legal Research Databases Introduction, Cyber Security Awareness

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL201Legal English IICore4Advanced Legal Drafting, Pleading and Conveyancing, Legal Research Writing, Public Speaking and Advocacy, Legal Communication Strategies
U22BLL202Law of Contract ICore4Formation of Contract (Offer, Acceptance), Consideration, Capacity of Parties, Free Consent, Void and Voidable Agreements
U22BLL203Political Science IICore4Indian Political Thought, Western Political Thinkers, Concept of Democracy, Rights and Duties, Political Ideologies
U22BLL204Sociology IICore4Indian Social Structure, Caste System and its Dynamics, Tribal Communities, Social Problems in India, Social Movements and Law
U22BLL205Economics IICore4Principles of Macroeconomics, Monetary Policy, Fiscal Policy, International Trade, Economic Growth and Development
U22BLL206Professional Ethics & AccountabilitySkill Based2Ethics for Legal Professionals, Bar Council of India Rules, Professional Misconduct, Contempt of Court, Advocates Act and Regulations

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL301Constitutional Law ICore4Nature of Indian Constitution, Preamble and its Significance, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Citizenship
U22BLL302Family Law ICore4Sources and Schools of Hindu Law, Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, Hindu Succession Act, 1956, Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, Joint Family and Coparcenary
U22BLL303Law of Contract IICore4Contracts of Indemnity and Guarantee, Bailment and Pledge, Law of Agency, Sale of Goods Act, 1930, Indian Partnership Act, 1932
U22BLL304Law of Crimes ICore4General Principles of Criminal Law, Elements of Crime, General Exceptions, Offences Against Human Body, Offences Against Property
U22BLL305Environmental LawCore4Constitutional Provisions for Environmental Protection, Environmental Protection Act, 1986, Pollution Control Laws, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Forest Conservation Act, 1980
U22BLL306Moot Court, Arbitration, ConciliationPractical2Moot Court Procedures and Etiquettes, Memorial Drafting, Oral Advocacy Skills, Arbitration Process and Awards, Conciliation and Mediation Techniques

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL401Constitutional Law IICore4Union and State Executive, Union and State Legislature, Indian Judiciary, Centre-State Relations, Emergency Provisions and Constitutional Amendments
U22BLL402Family Law IICore4Sources and Schools of Muslim Law, Muslim Marriage and Divorce, Dower, Maintenance, and Guardianship, Wills, Gifts, and Waqf, Customary Laws and their Recognition
U22BLL403Property LawCore4Transfer of Property Act, 1882, Sale, Mortgage, Lease, Exchange and Gift, Doctrine of Lis Pendens, Easements Act, 1882
U22BLL404Law of Crimes IICore4Offences Against the State, Offences Against Public Tranquility, Offences Relating to Public Justice, Cyber Crimes, White Collar Crimes
U22BLL405Administrative LawCore4Nature and Scope of Administrative Law, Delegated Legislation, Administrative Discretion, Principles of Natural Justice, Judicial Review of Administrative Action
U22BLL406Legal AidPractical2Concept and Importance of Legal Aid, National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), Legal Aid Clinics, Public Interest Litigation (PIL), Role of Lawyers in Legal Aid

Semester 5

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL501JurisprudenceCore4Schools of Jurisprudence (Analytical, Historical, Sociological), Sources of Law (Custom, Precedent, Legislation), Concept of Rights and Duties, Legal Personality, Possession, Ownership, Justice and Law
U22BLL502Civil Procedure Code ICore4Definitions and Jurisdiction of Courts, Res Sub Judice and Res Judicata, Parties to Suit, Pleadings, Summons, Appearance of Parties, Interim Orders (Injunctions, Attachments)
U22BLL503Labour & Industrial Law ICore4Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, Trade Unions Act, 1926, Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946, Factories Act, 1948, Concept of Social Security
U22BLL504Company LawCore4Nature and Kinds of Companies, Formation and Incorporation of Company, Memorandum and Articles of Association, Share Capital and Debentures, Directors and Management, Meetings
U22BLL505Human Rights LawCore4Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants on Human Rights, National Human Rights Institutions, Human Rights in Indian Constitution, Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
U22BLL506Drafting, Pleading & ConveyancingPractical2General Principles of Drafting, Drafting of Plaint and Written Statement, Drafting of Affidavits, Drafting of Sale Deed, Mortgage Deed, Drafting of Lease Deed, Will

Semester 6

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL601Interpretation of StatutesCore4Rules of Statutory Interpretation, Internal and External Aids to Interpretation, Presumptions in Statutory Interpretation, Legal Maxims, Commencement, Operation, Repeal of Statutes
U22BLL602Civil Procedure Code II & Limitation ActCore4Execution of Decrees and Orders, Appeals, Reference, Review, Revision, Injunctions and Interlocutory Orders, General Principles of Limitation Act, Computation of Period of Limitation
U22BLL603Labour & Industrial Law IICore4Employees'''' Compensation Act, 1923, Minimum Wages Act, 1948, Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, Payment of Bonus Act, 1965, Maternity Benefit Act, 1961
U22BLL604Criminal Procedure Code ICore4Constitution of Criminal Courts, Powers of Police Officers, Arrest of Persons, Search and Seizure, First Information Report (FIR) and Bail
U22BLL605Law of EvidenceCore4Relevancy of Facts, Admissions and Confessions, Dying Declaration, Witnesses and Examination of Witnesses, Documentary Evidence, Estoppel
U22BLL606Public International LawCore4Sources of International Law, Subjects of International Law (States, Individuals), Recognition of States and Governments, Law of Treaties, United Nations and International Organizations

Semester 7

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL701Law & MedicineElective4Medical Negligence, Doctor-Patient Relationship, Consent in Medical Treatment, Euthanasia and Living Wills, Organ Transplantation Laws
U22BLL702Criminology & PenologyElective4Nature and Causes of Crime, Schools of Criminology, Theories of Punishment, Prison Reforms and Correctional Administration, Victimology
U22BLL703Information Technology LawElective4Information Technology Act, 2000, Digital Signatures and Electronic Records, E-commerce Legal Framework, Data Protection and Privacy, Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security
U22BLL704Intellectual Property LawElective4Copyright Law, Patent Law, Trademark Law, Industrial Designs and Geographical Indications, Enforcement of IP Rights
U22BLL705Private International LawElective4Conflict of Laws, Domicile and Nationality, Jurisdiction in Private International Law, Foreign Marriages and Divorces, International Contracts and Torts
U22BLL706Land Laws including Local LawsElective4Land Acquisition Act, Tenancy Laws, Revenue Laws, Urban Land Ceiling Legislation, Local Government Laws
U22BLL707Corporate GovernanceElective4Principles of Corporate Governance, Role of Board of Directors, Shareholder Rights and Activism, Insider Trading Regulations, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
U22BLL708Competition LawElective4Anti-Competitive Agreements, Abuse of Dominant Position, Regulation of Combinations (Mergers & Acquisitions), Competition Commission of India, Consumer Protection Act in Competition Context
U22BLL709Criminal Procedure Code IICore4Initiation of Criminal Proceedings, Complaints to Magistrates, Trial Procedures (Summons, Warrant, Sessions), Charge, Judgment, Appeals, Maintenance of Wives, Children, Parents
U22BLL710Alternative Dispute ResolutionPractical2Introduction to ADR Mechanisms, Arbitration Act, 1996, Conciliation and Mediation, Negotiation Techniques, Lok Adalats
U22BLL711Client Interviewing & CounsellingPractical2Principles of Client Interviewing, Client-Lawyer Communication Skills, Legal Counselling Techniques, Ethical Considerations in Counselling, Case Analysis and Strategy Development
U22BLL712Legal Ethics & Professional Accounting SystemCore4Advocates Act, 1961, Professional Ethics for Lawyers, Bar-Bench Relations, Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, Accountancy for Lawyers
U22BLL713Law of TaxationCore4Constitutional Provisions on Taxation, Direct and Indirect Taxes, Income Tax Act, 1961 (Overview), Goods and Services Tax (GST) (Overview), Basic Concepts of Tax Planning

Semester 8

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL801Banking LawElective4Banking Regulation Act, 1949, Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, Banker-Customer Relationship, Loans, Advances, and Securities, Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934
U22BLL802Insurance LawElective4Principles of Insurance, Types of Insurance (Life, General), Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), Insurance Contracts and Claims, Reinsurance
U22BLL803Media LawElective4Freedom of Speech and Expression, Censorship and Regulations, Defamation and Obscenity, Broadcasting Laws in India, Press Council of India
U22BLL804Humanitarian & Refugee LawElective4International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Geneva Conventions, War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity, Refugee Convention, 1951, Asylum and Statelessness
U22BLL805Investment LawElective4SEBI Act, 1992, Capital Markets and Securities, Stock Exchanges and Depositories, Mutual Funds Regulations, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Law
U22BLL806Tax Law IElective4Basic Concepts of Income Tax, Residential Status and Tax Incidence, Heads of Income, Deductions and Exemptions, Assessment Procedures
U22BLL807Consumer Protection LawElective4Consumer Protection Act, 2019, Consumer Rights, Consumer Dispute Redressal Forums, Unfair Trade Practices, Product Liability
U22BLL808Law on Foreign Trade & InvestmentElective4World Trade Organization (WTO) Framework, General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), EXIM Policy of India, Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), International Commercial Contracts
U22BLL809Cyber Law & ForensicsCore4Jurisprudence of Cyberspace, Cyber Crimes and Punishment, Digital Evidence and Forensics, E-governance and E-contracts, Data Privacy and Security
U22BLL810Practical Training IPractical2Court Visits and Observation, Case Study Analysis, Legal Drafting Exercises, Preparation of Legal Notices, Basic Research Skills
U22BLL811Clinical Legal Education IPractical2Legal Aid Clinic Operations, Client Interview Simulation, Ethical Dilemmas in Practice, Community Legal Awareness Programs, Basic Dispute Resolution Practice
U22BLL812Law of Crimes IIICore4Offences Relating to Marriage, Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985

Semester 9

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL901Law on Crimes IIIElective4Offences relating to Marriage, Dowry Prohibition Act, Domestic Violence Act, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act
U22BLL902Penology & VictimologyElective4Theories of Punishment, Correctional Administration, Parole and Probation, Victim Rights and Protection, Victim Compensation Schemes
U22BLL903Forensic Science & LawElective4Role of Forensic Science in Justice, Fingerprinting and Handwriting Analysis, DNA Profiling, Ballistics and Firearms, Forensic Medicine and Expert Evidence
U22BLL904Taxation Law IIElective4Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act, Central GST, State GST, Integrated GST, Customs Act, 1962, Introduction to Service Tax and Central Excise, Input Tax Credit Mechanism
U22BLL905Women & Criminal LawElective4Offences against Women (Rape, Sexual Harassment), Dowry Deaths and Acid Attacks, Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, Legal Protections for Women in India, Role of NGOs and Women''''s Commissions
U22BLL906Law on EducationElective4Right to Education Act, 2009, Regulatory Bodies in Education (UGC, AICTE), Private Educational Institutions Regulations, Admission Procedures and Quotas, Anti-Ragging Laws
U22BLL907Mergers & AcquisitionsElective4Types of Mergers and Acquisitions, Legal Framework for M&A in India, Due Diligence Process, SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, Competition Law Aspects of M&A
U22BLL908Trade Mark & Copyright LawElective4Trademarks Act, 1999, Registration and Protection of Trademarks, Copyright Act, 1957, Infringement and Remedies for IP Rights, International Conventions on IP
U22BLL909Clinical Legal Education IIPractical2Advanced Client Management, Negotiation and Settlement Skills, Legal Drafting of Complex Documents, Mediation and Conciliation Practice, Ethical Problem Solving
U22BLL910Legal Research & MethodologyCore4Fundamentals of Legal Research, Research Design and Methods, Sources of Legal Information (Primary & Secondary), Citation and Referencing Styles, Legal Writing Skills
U22BLL911Environmental Law and PolicyCore4International Environmental Law, Climate Change Law and Policy, Biodiversity Protection, Pollution Control Mechanisms, Environmental Impact Assessment
U22BLL912Law of Patents and DesignsCore4Patent Act, 1970, Patentability Criteria, Patent Filing and Grant Process, Industrial Designs Act, 2000, Infringement and Remedies

Semester 10

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
U22BLL001Project Work / DissertationProject6Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Dissertation Writing and Formatting, Presentation and Viva-Voce
U22BLL002InternshipPractical6Practical Legal Training in Law Firms/Courts, Observation of Legal Proceedings, Assisting in Case Preparation, Legal Aid and Community Service, Professional Skill Development
U22BLL003Drafting of Legal DocumentsPractical4Advanced Pleading Techniques, Drafting of Complex Contracts and Agreements, Conveyancing of Property Documents, Drafting of Writs and Appeals, Formal Legal Correspondence
U22BLL004Moot Court & Court VisitPractical4Advanced Mooting and Argumentation, Court Observation and Reporting, Client Interviewing and Counselling, Case Presentation Skills, Trial Advocacy Basics
U22BLL005Clinical Legal EducationPractical4Management of Legal Aid Clinics, Client Representation in Minor Cases, Ethical Practice and Responsibilities, Community Legal Awareness Campaigns, Alternative Dispute Resolution Practice
U22BLL006Professional EthicsPractical4Bar-Bench Relations and Conduct, Duties of an Advocate to Court and Client, Professional Misconduct and Discipline, Contempt of Court, Accountancy for Lawyers and Advocates Act
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