Introduction to Law and Practice

Course Description

This unit will introduce students to the basic concepts of the English Legal System, as well as the UK’s relationship with the EU and the changes as a result of Brexit. Students completing his unit will be provided with a fundamental grounding in basic concepts of English Law and the foundations of law.

Course Objectives

This unit will introduce students to the basic concepts of the English Legal System, as well as the UK’s relationship with the EU and the changes as a result of Brexit. Students completing his unit will be provided with a fundamental grounding in basic concepts of English Law and the foundations of law.

Key Topics

1. LO1: Understand the structure of the English legal system
2. LO2: Understand how Parliament passes an Act
3. LO3: Understand the hierarchy of the Courts
4. LO4: Understand roles in the legal profession

Course Outline

Learning Outcomes

1. LO1 Understand the structure of the English legal system
2. 1.1 Describe the differences between civil and criminal law.
3. 1.2 Describe the organs of the government, European Union and Brexit.
4. 1.3 Differentiate the classifications of the legal system.
5. 1.4 Explain what law is and the impact that it has on society.
6. 1.5 Examine the differences between common law and statutory law.
7. LO2 Understand how Parliament passes an Act
8. 2.1 Outline the role of the Law Commission.
9. 2.2 Describe what is meant by delegated legislation.
10. 2.3 Explain the formal consultation process.
11. 2.4 Analyse the different stages involved in creating an Act.
12. 2.5 Examine the different types of Bill which are created.
13. LO3 Understand the hierarchy of the Courts
14. 3.1 Compare the different types of civil courts.
15. 3.2 Describe the hierarchical structure and types of criminal courts.
16. 3.3 Explain the appeal processes.
17. 3.4 Analyse the work that civil courts undertake.
18. 3.5 Analyse the work that criminal courts undertake.
19. LO4 Understand roles in the legal profession
20. 4.1 Identify the judges that sit in each court within the hierarchy of law and appointment process.
21. 4.2 Outline the work undertaken by Magistrates.
22. 4.3 Explain the role of Juries in the legal profession.
23. 4.4 Explain the training required to become a barrister and the role a barrister plays in the legal profession.
24. 4.5 Analyse the ethical responsibilities of the legal profession.