Sec 1 Legal personnel Flashcards
(28 cards)
Who are the two main types of legal professionals in England and Wales?
Solicitors and barristers.
What is the main role of a solicitor?
To provide legal advice, prepare cases, handle paperwork, and sometimes represent clients in court.
Where do solicitors usually work?
In law firms, private practice, or for organisations like the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
How do you qualify as a solicitor?
Law degree (or conversion course) → Solicitors Legal Practice Course (LPC or SQE) → Period of qualifying work experience.
What is the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)?
A new two-part centralised exam system introduced to become a solicitor.
What are the rights of audience for solicitors?
Solicitors can represent clients in the Magistrates’ Court and County Court; some can advocate in higher courts with extra qualifications.
What is the main role of a barrister?
To advocate in court, provide specialist legal opinions, and draft complex legal documents.
Where do most barristers work?
In chambers (groups of self-employed barristers) or employed by organisations.
How do you qualify as a barrister?
Law degree (or conversion course) → Bar Training Course → Pupillage (1-year apprenticeship with a qualified barrister).
What is a tenancy in barristers’ chambers?
A permanent place in chambers after completing pupillage.
Who regulates barristers?
The Bar Standards Board (BSB).
Who regulates solicitors?
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
What is the Inns of Court?
Four professional associations (e.g., Inner Temple, Middle Temple) that provide training and support to barristers.
What is the Queen’s Counsel (KC/QC)?
A senior barrister recognised for excellence in advocacy – known as “taking silk.”
What is the role of legal executives?
Qualified lawyers who specialise in a specific area of law, such as conveyancing or family law.
How do you qualify as a legal executive?
Complete the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) qualification and practical experience.
What is the role of the Lord Chancellor?
A government minister responsible for the legal system and head of the Ministry of Justice.
What is the role of the Lord Chief Justice?
Head of the judiciary and president of the courts of England and Wales.
What is judicial independence?
The principle that judges must be free from external pressure and political influence.
How is judicial independence protected?
Through security of tenure, immunity from being sued for decisions, and separation of powers.
What are the different types of judges?
District judges, Circuit judges, High Court judges, Court of Appeal judges, and Supreme Court Justices.
What is the role of a District Judge?
Handles small claims and family cases in County or Magistrates’ Courts.
What is the role of a Circuit Judge?
Hears civil and criminal cases in the County and Crown Court.
What is the role of a High Court judge?
Hears complex civil and criminal cases and appeals in the High Court.
