Darbyshire on the English Legal System

An engaging, thought-provoking and highly readable introduction to the contemporary legal system of England and Wales Provides students with an engaging, thought-provoking and highly readable introduction to the contemporary legal system of England and Wales Explains both new and old laws derived from the ELS, guiding students through a text which discusses legal principles, historical context, practice and procedure Considers the various functions and powers of individuals and institutions within the ELS New to this edition: Recent EU and human rights cases, as they affect the UK, and new domestic case law. Developing a single family court from 2014 The effects of cutbacks in spending on court closures and access to the courts The Jackson reforms to civil procedure from 2013: the battle to control civil costs The downward shift of criminal business; the attempt to manage criminal cases Lawyers? new business structures; the changing composition of the legal profession Diversifying the judiciary: legal and policy changes and new commentaries The international struggle to stop jurors searching the internet ? the Law Commission?s report on contempt Magistrates and their courts under threat Access to justice: the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 and the effects of radical cuts to legal aid y