Sources of Law and Procedures in England

What is the primary source of law in England?

Which type of law requires the burden of proof to be met by the balance of probabilities?

In which court are serious criminal cases typically heard?

Which of the following statements about hearings is true?

What is the characteristic of the burden of proof in criminal cases?

Delegated Legislation

Balance of Probabilities

Beyond Reasonable Doubt

Sources of Law

Legislation is a primary source of law in England, made by Parliament in the form of Acts of Parliament.
Parliament can delegate law-making authority to other bodies or individuals, creating secondary legislation (e.g., statutory instruments, by-laws).
The common law is also a source of law.
EU law is no longer part of English law.
Customs and conventions are also a source of law.

Burden of Proof

Civil cases: balance of probabilities
Criminal cases: beyond reasonable doubt

Procedures

Civil cases in England are typically heard in county or high courts, depending on complexity and value. Procedure is less formal than criminal trials, and resolution may occur through settlement or mediation.
Criminal cases are usually heard in magistrates' or Crown Courts; less serious offences are heard in Magistrates' courts, and more serious offences in Crown courts.
Criminal trials are more formal, often including a jury.
In civil cases, parties can choose a single judge or a jury. In criminal cases, a single judge is less common.

Explore the fundamental sources of law in England, including legislation, common law, and procedural differences between civil and criminal cases. This quiz covers the burden of proof standards and the roles of various courts in the legal system.