The Law and Your Role

The Rule of Law

Everyone must obey the law, including the government and police. The law applies equally to all.

Criminal and Civil Law

- Criminal law: Relates to crimes against society (theft, assault, murder)

Police

Responsible for:

Courts

- Magistrates' Courts: Handle less serious criminal cases

Jury Service

Called randomly from the electoral register. Citizens have a duty to serve on juries to ensure fair trials.

Fundamental Rights

- Right to a fair trial

The Human Rights Act (1998)

Incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law. This allows people to seek justice in UK courts rather than having to go to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

Small Claims Court

Part of the County Court, used for settling small civil disputes (typically under £10,000). People can represent themselves without a solicitor.

Legal Aid

Help with legal costs for people who cannot afford a solicitor. Eligibility depends on the type of case and financial circumstances.

The Ombudsman

Independent officials who investigate complaints about public services, including the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.

⚠️Don't Confuse Court Types

Magistrates' Court = less serious criminal cases (no jury)
Crown Court = serious criminal cases (with jury)
County Court = civil disputes (no jury)
High Court / Supreme Court = appeals and complex cases

🔑Key Legal Facts

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the UK (replaced the House of Lords as the final court of appeal in 2009)
Jury members are chosen randomly from the electoral register
Everyone has the right to a fair trial
Police must be independent of government
Human Rights Act 1998 brought European Convention rights into UK law

🎯Test Tips

Know the difference between criminal law (crimes against society) and civil law (disputes between individuals)
Jury service is a duty, not optional — you can be fined for not attending
The police are independent — the government cannot tell them who to arrest

The UK Legal System