Courts

British law is divided into civil law and criminal law. Civil law concerns disagreements between individuals about matters such as business contracts. Criminal law deals with offences. In civil cases, the plaintiff brings an action against the defendant in the hope of winning damages. Criminal cases are brought against criminals by the state.

In England most towns have a Magistrates’ court where minor criminal cases are judged by three magistrates called Justices of the Peace, specially trained members of the public. More serious cases are heard in a Crown Court by a judge and a jury. Minor civil cases, such as divorce and bankruptcy are heard in the county courts and more serious ones in the High Court of Justice. Appeals against decisions from the Crown Court or the High Court go to the Court of Appeal. A few cases, where a question of law is in doubt go to the House of Lords.

Lawyers’ work

Lawyers work to assure the principle of equal justice under law to the people of the state.

A lawyer is both an advisor and an advocate. As an advisor, a lawyer informs clients about legal matters or represents persons, businesses, and the government in such matters as contracts and commercial transactions.

As an advocate, a lawyer acts for the client in court. A lawyer also advocates on behalf of clients in resolving disputes out of court.

Lawyers’ work can include defending or prosecuting those accused of committing a crime.

Lawyers research legal issues, draft contracts, wills and other documents, counsel, mediate, and negotiate settlements.

Some lawyers specialize in advising corporations working as in-house counsel. They also act for the company in court if a dispute arises.

Most lawyers practice in law firms that can be small or big, but usually have different areas to counsel clients on.

Usually, lawyers concentrate on a certain practice area: taxation or intellectual property, some practice public interest law, for example working to protect the environment.

Some lawyers may be appointed or elected to serve as judges. Judges preside in the courtroom. They resolve disputes and give the judgments. In a jury trial they rule on points of law and tell the jury about the law that governs the case.

Lawyers also work for various government agencies and organizations.

Legal careers also include teaching law and research.