Equity (including trusts)

Abstract

One of the eleven core subjects a law student must pass to qualify as a candidate for Admission to practise law. See Priestley Eleven. Both components of a course in equity and trusts have deep historical roots that inform current practice. The equity component of courses focuses on the history and nature of equity as a mechanism to soften the sometimes harsh effect of the law. It includes the development of equity in specialised courts; equitable rights; titles and interests; equitable assignments; estoppel; fiduciary obligations; unconscionable transactions, and equitable remedies. While the typical remedy in civil matters is damages, equitable remedies include injunctions (directing someone to do or refrain from doing something) and specific performance (such as delivery under a contract).