L.7 UK Judiciary Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is one of the primary roles of the Judiciary in the UK?

  • Adjudicating conflicts between individuals (correct)
  • Conducting elections
  • Enforcing political decisions
  • Making laws exclusively without interpretation
  • Which Constitutional Act formalized the functions of the Judicial Appointments Commission?

  • Constitutional Reform Act 2005 (correct)
  • Judicial Review Act 2005
  • Judicial Powers Act 2005
  • Constitutional Functions Act 2005
  • What must the Judicial Appointments Commission prioritize when selecting candidates for judicial positions?

  • Merit and integrity (correct)
  • Political affiliation
  • Experience in public advocacy
  • Availability of judges in local areas
  • In how many court systems does the UK's judiciary operate?

    <p>Three (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key function of the Supreme Court established in 2009?

    <p>Hearing cases relating to devolution (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who must the Judicial Appointments Commission consult before selecting Supreme Court members?

    <p>The Lord Chancellor and senior judges (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if the Lord Chancellor rejects a nomination from the Judicial Appointments Commission?

    <p>The commission must choose a new candidate (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of conflicts does the Judiciary primarily adjudicate?

    <p>Conflicts involving state institutions and individuals (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the Prime Minister concerning judicial appointments as outlined in Sec. 26 (3) CRA 2005?

    <p>To recommend persons as notified by the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the Act of Settlement 1701, under what condition can a judge be removed from office?

    <p>By the Crown on the advice of both Houses of Parliament (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant change occurred regarding the Lord Chancellor's role with the introduction of the CRA 2005?

    <p>The Lord Chancellor is no longer the head of the judiciary (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the independence of judges in terms of their immunity from suit?

    <p>Judges are not liable to legal action if acting in their jurisdiction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In R (Anderson) v Home Secretary, what aspect of the law was determined to be incompatible with Article 6(1) ECHR?

    <p>The Home Secretary's authority to set minimum sentences (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What protection did the Senior Court Act 1981 provide for judges?

    <p>Judges hold office during good behaviour with removal on Crown’s advice (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following roles does the Attorney General fulfill?

    <p>Government's special legal adviser and responsible for the criminal judicial system (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What requirement must a Lord Chancellor meet according to Sec. 2 (2) CRA 2005?

    <p>Must have practical experience in law or Parliament (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutional convention was associated with the Lord Chancellor before the CRA 2005?

    <p>The Lord Chancellor was the head of the judiciary and had judicial powers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which article of the ECHR relates to a fair trial by an independent tribunal?

    <p>Article 6 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key statutory duties of the Judicial Appointments Commission under the CRA 2005?

    <p>Select candidates solely on merit (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which court system is part of the UK's judiciary?

    <p>England and Wales (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Lord Chancellor do upon receiving nominations from the Judicial Appointments Commission?

    <p>Accept, reject, or request reconsideration (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When was the Supreme Court established as the highest court in the UK?

    <p>2009 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the roles of the European Court of Human Rights?

    <p>Resolve individual cases against states (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What principle concerning diversity does the Judicial Appointments Commission emphasize?

    <p>Diversity in the range of persons available for selection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the Supreme Court's jurisdiction differ from that of the House of Lords?

    <p>It has assumed the appellate functions previously held by the House of Lords (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the ways the Judiciary aids in constitutional functions?

    <p>By interpreting legislation and constitutional sources (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary change in the role of the Prime Minister regarding judicial appointments as established by Sec. 26 (3) CRA 2005?

    <p>The Prime Minister must recommend candidates as notified by the Judicial Appointments Commission. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutional document provides for the removal of judges based on good behavior?

    <p>Act of Settlement 1701 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the Lord Chancellor's role post-CRA 2005?

    <p>The Lord Chancellor is not the head of the judiciary anymore. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one major function of the Attorney General?

    <p>To act as the government's special legal adviser. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What principle is emphasized by Lord Denning in Sirros v Moore regarding judicial immunity?

    <p>Judges should perform their duties without fear of legal action when acting in belief of their jurisdiction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under Article 6(1) ECHR, what aspect must a tribunal fulfill to ensure a fair trial?

    <p>It must be established by law and independent. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of R (Anderson) v Home Secretary, which party was determined not to be an independent tribunal as per Article 6(1)?

    <p>The Home Secretary (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Crown Proceedings Act 1947 guarantee for judges?

    <p>Immunity from personal liability when acting within their jurisdiction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the new qualification requirement for the appointment of the Lord Chancellor as per Sec. 2 (2) CRA 2005?

    <p>Must have prior experience in legal practice. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Supreme Court

    The highest court in the UK, assuming the appellate functions of the House of Lords and the devolution jurisdiction of the Privy Council.

    Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC)

    The process of selecting judges and tribunal members focusing on merit, good character, and diversity.

    Judicial Review

    A legal principle that allows individuals to challenge the legality of government actions in court.

    Common Law

    The body of law developed by judges through court decisions.

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    Interpretation of Legislation

    The act of interpreting legislation and other constitutional sources to determine their meaning and application.

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    Adjudicate Conflicts

    The role of a court to resolve disputes between individuals, organizations, and the state.

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    Apply Legislation

    A court's responsibility to ensure that laws are applied consistently and fairly.

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    Separation of Powers

    The principle of separation of powers in the UK, where the legislative, executive, and judicial branches have distinct roles and responsibilities.

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    Supreme Court Composition (CRA 2005)

    The Supreme Court is composed of existing Law Lords and Justices, with the Senior Law Lord acting as President.

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    PM's Role in Supreme Court Appointments (CRA 2005)

    The Prime Minister's role in recommending Supreme Court Justices is significantly limited. The Judicial Appointments Commission notifies the PM about potential candidates, and the PM is obligated to recommend one of them.

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    Judges' Tenure (Senior Court Act 1981)

    Judges in the UK are appointed by the Crown, based on advice from Parliament, and can only be removed for misconduct or serious incompetence.

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    Judges' Tenure (Act of Settlement 1701)

    The Act of Settlement 1701 reinforces judges' tenure, ensuring they hold office during good behavior. Removal is only possible with the consent of both Houses of Parliament.

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    Judicial Immunity from Suit

    Judges are protected from lawsuits in the performance of their duties. They are free to make judgments without fear of legal repercussions, even if they are mistaken.

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    Lord Chancellor's Functions (Pre-CRA 2005)

    Prior to the Constitutional Reform Act 2005, the Lord Chancellor was a member of the Cabinet, head of the judiciary, responsible for judicial appointments, and automatically served as speaker of the House of Lords.

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    Lord Chancellor's Functions (Post-CRA 2005)

    The Lord Chancellor's role has been redefined. They are no longer head of the judiciary, automatic House of Lords speaker, but still a member of the Cabinet and involved in judicial appointments.

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    Attorney General's Functions

    The Attorney General serves as the government's legal advisor, oversees the criminal justice system, and has the authority to halt criminal proceedings.

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    Attorney General's Dual Role

    The Attorney General holds a dual role, serving as both a Minister of the Crown and the Crown's Chief Legal Advisor. This position is politically appointed.

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    Impact of the Human Rights Act on Judicial Independence

    The Human Rights Act incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law, including the right to a fair trial by an independent and impartial tribunal.

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    What is the UK's Supreme Court?

    The highest court in the UK, replacing the House of Lords as the final court of appeal. Created in 2009 by the Constitutional Reform Act 2005.

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    Who selects judges in the UK?

    The Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) selects candidates for judicial positions based on merit, good character, and diversity. They recommend judges to the Prime Minister for appointment.

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    What is Judicial Review?

    The process of reviewing government actions to determine whether they are lawful. This protects individuals from arbitrary or unfair state actions.

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    Explain the concept of 'Common Law'.

    The body of law developed by judges through past court decisions. It's a key part of the UK's legal system, providing guidance for future cases.

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    What is the 'Separation of Powers' principle?

    The principle that separates the powers of the government into three branches: the legislature (makes laws), the executive (implements laws), and the judiciary (interprets laws).

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    What is the role of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR)?

    The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in Strasbourg ensures that states respect human rights. Individuals can appeal to the ECtHR if they believe their human rights have been violated.

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    What types of cases does the ECtHR handle?

    The ECtHR deals with disputes between individuals and states, as well as disputes between states.

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    What is the role of the Lord Chancellor in the UK?

    The Lord Chancellor is a member of the Cabinet and plays a key role in judicial appointments. They receive reports from the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) and have the power to accept, reject, or ask for further consideration of nominations.

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    Judges' Tenure: Senior Courts Act 1981

    According to the Senior Courts Act 1981, Section 11(3), judges in the UK maintain their positions as long as they conduct themselves properly. They can be removed only if the Crown, acting on the advice of Parliament, decides to do so.

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    Judges' Tenure: Act of Settlement 1701

    The Act of Settlement 1701 emphasizes the security of judges' roles, guaranteeing their positions as long as they behave appropriately. Removal is only possible with the agreement of both the House of Lords and the House of Commons.

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    Judges' Immunity from Suit

    Judges are protected from lawsuits while performing their official duties. This allows them to make decisions without fear of legal repercussions, even if their judgments are incorrect.

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    R (Anderson) v Home Secretary: Judicial Independence and Article 6(1)

    The Anderson case involved a challenge to the Home Secretary's power to revise minimum prison sentences, arguing it violated the right to a fair trial by an independent and impartial tribunal. The court ruled that the Home Secretary's decision was not independent enough, as it didn't meet the requirements of Article 6(1) of the European Convention on Human Rights.

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    Study Notes

    UK Judiciary - Overview

    • Three court systems operate in the UK: England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
    • The Supreme Court is the UK's final court of appeal.
    • Courts adjudicate disputes between state institutions, the state and individuals, and individuals.
    • Courts apply, interpret, and identify constitutional sources (e.g., prerogative powers), and create common law.
    • The Supreme Court's jurisdiction as the final court of appeal in the UK was reaffirmed in 2010.

    Constitutional Functions

    • Courts settle disputes between the government and individuals (e.g., judicial review) and between government bodies.
    • They handle private disputes under civil law.
    • They enforce and interpret legislation, including the Human Rights Act 1998.
    • They determine the existence of prerogative powers, applying legislation and identifying constitutional sources.

    Judicial Appointments

    • The Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) selects Supreme Court judges and recommends appointments to the Lord Chancellor. It also selects other judges and tribunal members.
    • The JAC selects candidates based on merit, good character, and promotes diversity.
    • Consultation with the Lord Chancellor, senior judges, and senior ministers (Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) is mandatory.
    • The JAC’s key duties under the Constitutional Reform Act 2005 include: selecting candidates based on merit, good character, and encouraging diversity.
    • The Lord Chancellor can accept, reject, or request reconsideration of JAC nominations.
    • If a candidate is rejected, the JAC cannot select them again.

    Supreme Court

    • Established in 2009, it replaced the House of Lords' appellate function and took over the Privy Council's devolution jurisdiction.
    • The Supreme Court's composition significantly reduces the Prime Minister's role in appointments.
    • Existing Law Lords and Justices became Supreme Court members.
    • The Senior Law Lord serves as President of the Supreme Court.

    Independence of the Judiciary

    • Judges hold office during good behavior. Removal is possible by the Crown, advised by Parliament (Senior Courts Act 1981).
    • The Act of Settlement 1701 safeguards judicial tenure and salary, and judges are immune from suit in the UK (Crown Proceedings Act 1947).
    • In the Anderson case, the Home Secretary's role in fixing minimum sentences was part of a trial, so was meant to be undertaken by an independent tribunal (under Article 6 of the ECHR).

    Impact of Constitutional Reform Act 2005

    • The Lord Chancellor's role has changed significantly: they are no longer the head of the judiciary (now held by the Lord Chief Justice), are not automatic speakers of the House of Lords, must demonstrate relevant experience as a minister, practitioner, teacher, etc., and are a member of the Cabinet (House of Commons).
    • Qualifications for the Lord Chancellor under the CRA 2005 include experience as a minister, in either House of Parliament, a practitioner, a law teacher, or other relevant experience.

    Attorney General

    • The Attorney General advises the government legally and manages the criminal justice system.
    • They have powers to halt criminal proceedings (e.g., under the Bribery Act 2006).
    • The Attorney General serves as both a minister and a legal advisor to the Crown.

    European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR)

    • Individuals can bring cases against a state to the ECtHR.
    • States can also be involved in cases, but domestic remedies must be exhausted first.

    Case Study: R (Anderson) v Home Secretary

    • The case illustrates the application of Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights, concerning fair trials.
    • Anderson, convicted of double murder and sentenced to a minimum of 15 years' imprisonment, sought judicial review of the Home Secretary's increase of his minimum term to 20 years, arguing this was a breach of Article 6(1).
    • The Home Secretary's decision to set a minimum term isn't independent enough for a valid trial under Article 6(1). The fixing of a tariff was indistinguishable from imposing a sentence.

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    Explore the structure and functions of the UK judiciary system. This quiz covers the different court systems, judicial appointments, and the role of courts in resolving disputes and interpreting legislation. Test your knowledge on key concepts related to UK law.

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