Comparative Company Law

Module Code:

15PLAH080

Credits:

15

FHEQ Level:

7

Year of study:

Any

Taught in:

Term 2

This module will examine legal aspects of an English company, including its formation, management, financing and if insolvent, its rescue and/or liquidation. The similarities and differences of the same aspects of a company formed in Germany, being a civil law jurisdiction, will be explored. Finally, the same aspects of Chinese company law (a system of law rooted in civil law traditions but with socialist characteristics), will be compared and contrasted.

Workload

• 2 hour lectures 

Scope and syllabus

1. An examination of the legal nature of a company formed in England and Wales, Germany and China and the legal significance of it being a separate legal entity from its shareholders.
2. Consideration of the management structure within an English, German and Chinese company and the legal duties and potential liabilities.
3. An exploration of how an English, German and Chinese company is financed including an examination of shares and security provided for loans.
4. The impact of insolvency on an English, German and Chinese company is examined and rescue procedures and liquidation are studied.

Method of assessment

• Exam: 60% (2 hours)
• Essay: 40% (3,000 words)

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