The Law Commission of England and Wales stands as a cornerstone of legal reform in the United Kingdom, tasked with the continuous review and recommendation of changes to the law to ensure it remains fair, modern, simple, and cost-effective. Established by the Law Commissions Act 1965, this independent body operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Justice but conducts its work with autonomy, aiming to streamline and update the legal framework for the benefit of society.
The Law Commission Slogan is “Reforming the Law”
Purpose and Function
- Law Review: The primary function of the Law Commission is to keep the law under review. This involves identifying areas where the law might be outdated, complex, or inefficient, and suggesting reforms.
- Public Consultation: Before finalizing recommendations, the Commission engages in extensive public consultation. This democratic process ensures that stakeholders, from legal professionals to the general public, have an opportunity to influence the law’s direction.
- Recommendations and Legislation: Following consultation, the Commission submits its recommendations to Parliament. These recommendations often lead to new legislation or amendments to existing laws, demonstrating the Commission’s significant impact on legal policy.
- Projects: The Commission’s work spans across various legal domains including criminal law, property law, family law, among others. Each project is carefully selected based on necessity, impact, and feasibility.
From time to time we consult widely to help us draw up a new programme of law reform. The Law Commissions Act 1965 requires the Commission to submit “programmes for the examination of different branches of the law” to the Lord Chancellor for his approval before undertaking new work.
Before deciding which projects to take forward, the Law Commission takes views from judges, lawyers, Government Departments, the voluntary and business sectors, and the general public.
We also take on projects that are referred to us by Government Departments.
How We Work – The Law Commission
Structure and Governance
The Commission is led by a Chairman, currently Sir Peter Fraser, supported by four Commissioners, a Chief Executive, Non-Executive Board Members, and a team that includes legal experts, policy analysts, and research staff. This structure facilitates a multidisciplinary approach to law reform, ensuring that legal changes are both practical and theoretically sound.
- Independence: While sponsored by the Ministry of Justice, the Commission’s independence is crucial. It operates free from political interference, allowing for impartial law reform.
- Funding and Approval: The Law Commission’s work programs are approved by the Lord Chancellor, but day-to-day operations and project decisions remain within the Commission’s purview.
The Law Commission’s work is often behind the scenes but profoundly impacts everyday legal practices and public policy. Approximately 70% of its recommendations have been enacted or accepted by the government, showcasing its effectiveness in driving legal reform.
Public Perception and Engagement
Public engagement with the Law Commission’s initiatives, as reflected from discussions online, shows a mix of support for its efforts towards transparency and modernisation, alongside criticisms or concerns regarding specific reforms or government interactions with its recommendations. This dialogue underscores the Commission’s role not just as a reformer but also as a bridge between the public and the legal system.
Contact the Law Commission
Phone: 020 3334 0200
Email: Enquiries@lawcommission.gov.uk
X (Twitter): @Law_Commission
Fax: 020 3334 0201
Address: 1st Floor, Tower, 52 Queen Anne’s Gate, London SW1H 9AG
The Law Commission publish the latest news on their website.
The Law Commission of England and Wales is more than just a body for legal reform; it represents the evolving nature of law in response to societal changes. By continuously reviewing and suggesting changes, it plays a vital role in ensuring that the legal system remains relevant, accessible, and just. For anyone interested in the mechanics of law-making or the evolution of legal thought, understanding the Law Commission provides insight into how laws are not just created but are continuously refined for the contemporary world.
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Read the reviews of Junior Sussex Barrister Gavin Howe and Legal 500 Junior Barrister Eleanor Battie
“He is awful, underhanded and should not be practising law!”
“She is a one-woman legal A Team”
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Law Commission of England and Wales was last updated on the 6th October 2024
