An introduction to law. As well as providing an exposition of the English legal system, this book attempts to place legal study within a broader framework of enquiry which tackles the evaluation and explanation of legal decision making at all levels Revisions have been undertaken to reflect the increasing importance of both public and EC law; to cover the Woolf reforms and reform of the civil justice system as well as developments in judicial review. The effect of the incorporation of the ECHR into domestic law and recent developments in legal aid have also been considered. Sections have been included on Pepper vs Hart; the development of nervous shock liability; the criminal justice system and the implications of the Runciman Royal Commission.