Introduction to the English Legal System
Course Overview
The English common law system is considered by many to be the matriarch of all common law systems in the world today. However, it may surprise you to learn that the system of binding case law precedent was not an English invention at all.
In 1066, William the Conqueror – the first English Norman King, laid the foundations for the introduction of a system of law which was common to everyone. Thus, began a process of unification of the law in England.
The impact of history on the English legal system cannot be ignored. Many initiatives introduced by later Kings, Henry II (circuit judges), James I (fusing common law and equitable Courts) and John I (signing the Magna Carta) still influence the English legal system and the world today.
Ancient legal principles and maxims borrowed from Latin writings, adopted through usage of Law French, and modernised by international trade are still taught at universities and they are essential tools for legal practitioners.
The global practice of law may have slowly led to the deterioration of the separation of the main branches of the profession – solicitors and barristers – but the prestige and honour of being a lawyer remains in many cultures. Many influential leaders in world history have been drawn from the legal profession.
Syllabus
- History of the English Legal System >> learn the historical background to how the English legal system was founded and developed
- The English Court System >> examine the hierarchy of the English Court system and the role of specialist tribunals
- The Legal Profession >> study the role of solicitors and barristers in the English system and explore the different areas of modern legal practice
- The Language of Law >> delve into the language of law tracing the influence of Latin and Law French and the use of archaic terminology
- Case Law Study
- Writing Corner
Each module contains a study of essential vocabulary and legal elements, exercises, writing, drafting, case studies and role plays. Modules can be taken separately depending on their interest or professional needs. If participants complete all modules, they will be awarded the Certificate of Completion which they can use to enhance their CV.
Total hours for the course = 6 hours
Dates for Group 1 course: To be advised
Trainer & Author of Legal English (Pearson 2021) : Sofia Parastatidou
Sofia is qualified in the UK and has been admitted as a solicitor since 1997. She is a former member of the New York State Bar Association and is now based in Italy where she trains lawyers, accountants and notaries and teaches law, masters courses and various post – graduate courses. Sofia is the President of ILETA (International Legal English Teachers’ Academy) and author of Legal English (Pearson) and trains lawyers who wish to re-qualify through the Solicitors’ Qualifying Examination to become solicitors in England and Wales.
Cost
Group: Special Introductory Offer: €150 (minimum 2 people)
Individual: One to One Private Lessons are quoted individually
Participants will be given a final test to verify their understanding and a certificate of completion which can be added to their CV.
For further details or to express an interest in this course send an email to : info@britishlawacademy.com
NB: as far as possible groups will be formed based English levels and professional experience.