Understanding the Law

'Essential reading for new lawyers, those with a professional interest in the law, or simply the curious...the sort of book that will appeal to lawyer and non-lawyer alike, from journalist to legislator, student to enquiring member of the public. It expertly guides you through the ever-changing minefield of our legal system' John Cooper, The Times Understanding the Law is a lively and accessible introduction to the law. Geoffrey Rivlin uses all his experience as a judge to provide a wealth of fascinating detail about the legal system and the many people who participate in it, including judges, lawyers, and police officers. An updated selection of real-life cases help bring the book to life, and there are questions to accompany each chapter to encourage the reader to engage with the material. This book is ideal for anyone considering a career in the law, preparing for university, or embarking on a law course at school or college. Essential reading for new lawyers, those with a professional interest in the law, or simply the curious... the sort of book that will appeal to lawyer and non-lawyer alike, from journalist to legislator, student to enquiring member of the public. It expertly guides you through the ever-changing minefield of our legal system. John Cooper, The Times This book is a unique and very entertaining introduction to English law and the English legal system. I strongly recommend it to anyone about to study law, or thinking of studying the law. Penny Darbyshire, Kingston University The book provides a valuable insight into the laws of England and Wales and it provides a very useful starting point for those who want to know more about the law and how it operates. Niaz Faiz, Policy Officer, Department for Constitutional Affairs Rivlin's book should feature on any list of recommended introductory reading for incoming students. The authority with which the author speaks, the accessibility of the book, and the humour with which it is written, will make this a highly beneficial first step in the law. Gary Betts, Coventry University, The Law Teacher ...skilfully combines a "starter" history of our legal system with a thumbnail sketch of the laws that affect us and the people who implement them. The Times Written in a lively and engaging fashion with lots of interesting links and stories to spark and hold the reader's attention. Avis Whyte, University of Westminster

1. Introduction - the Royal Courts of Justice ; 2. The Law and its Importance ; 3. The Invisible Palace - Part 1: 'Judge-Made' Law - Common Law and Equity ; 4. The Invisible Palace - Part 2: The Constitution ; 5. The Palace of Westminster: Our Chief Law Makers - Parliament ; 6. Our Chief Law Enforcers - the Police ; 7. Our Law Upholders - the Judiciary ; 8. Human Rights ; 9. Discrimination and the Law ; 10. The Legal Profession ; 11. Solicitors ; 12. Barristers ; 13. The Work of the Courts - Part 1: The Courts ; 14. The Work of the Courts - Part 2: Criminal and Civil Cases ; 15. Judges ; 16. Legal Robes ; 17. Criminal Trials through the Ages ; 18. Punishments through the Ages ; 19. Criminal Trials Today ; 20. Punishments Today ; 21. Young Persons ; 22. Dangerous Drugs ; 23. Laws around the World ; 24. Some Interesting Cases ; Questions for the Reader ; Some Useful Reading