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Law

What is the Slip Rule ?

slip rule

The Slip Rule is a legal tool in England and Wales that allows judges to correct typographical or other errors in court orders or judgments.

The Slip Rule is included in both the Family Procedure Rules and the Civil Procedure Rules. This article will provide an overview of the Slip Rule, its application in Family and Civil cases, and the relevant rules and practice directions.

Errors may be caused by incompetence, typographical errors, clerical errors, or accidental slips or omissions. The Slip Rule is a common law principle that allows judges to make minor changes to their own orders, judgments, or directions to ensure that they accurately reflect the intention of the court.

The Slip Rule in Family Law Cases

The Family Procedure Rules (FPR) were introduced in 2010 and apply to family law cases in England and Wales. The FPR govern the procedure for family law cases, including divorce, child custody, and financial settlements. Family Procedure Rule 29.16 sets out the Slip Rule in family law cases.

Family Procedure Rule 29.16 states :-

(1) The court may at any time correct an accidental slip or omission in a judgment or order.

(2) A party may apply for a correction without notice.

Correction of errors in judgments and orders FPR 29.16

In addition to the Family Procedure Rule, there is also a Family Practice Direction that provide guidance on the use of the Slip Rule.

Family Practice Direction 29D provides guidance on the use of the Slip Rule in family law cases.

Note the careless typo by the Ministry of Justice in PD29D para 1.1 p6ovides. I would imagine this should be provides. Slip up or more evidence of incompetence at the MoJ ?

FPD29A Para 1.1

1.1 Rule 29.10 FPR p6ovides that the court may correct an accidental slip or omission in a judgment or order. Corrections under that rule must be approved by a judge, or by a Justices’ Legal Adviser where Practice Direction 2C so provides.

1.2 A court officer may make an amendment to an order, without prior reference to a judge or Justices’ Legal Adviser (as applicable), in the following circumstances-

(a) where a court officer has wrongly transposed details in the draft order approved by the court;

(b) where the error is obviously typographical such as-

(i) the spelling of a party’s name, a date of birth, a place of birth or marriage, where that can be corrected by reference to the application or supporting evidence on the court file such as a birth or marriage certificate; or

(ii) a nonsensical word clearly included in error (but see paragraph 1.4);

(c) changes to references in the order to the venue at which a hearing took place, where this can be verified from the court file, court diary or cause list;

(d) the date of the order, where this can be verified from the court file, court diary or cause list;

(e) details of a party’s legal representatives at a hearing when this can be verified from the court file or other record of hearing;

(f) the date of a hearing, where the court officer has listed a matter for hearing but transposed the details incorrectly into the order that notifies the parties of the hearing date;

(g) to improve the formatting (but not the numbering) of an order.

1.3 If a court officer concludes that-

(a) it would be inappropriate to make an amendment to an order even where they consider that a case falls within paragraph 1.2; or

(b) they are not certain whether or not a case falls within paragraph 1.2 (for example whether an error is obviously typographical),

the court officer must refer the matter to a judge to determine whether to make the amendment.

1.4 Save as specified in paragraph 1.2, a court officer must never make linguistic, grammatical or textual amendments to an order, or alter its numbering,  without reference to a judge or, where Practice Direction 2C applies, to a Justices’ Legal Adviser.

1.5 A court officer must never make an amendment to a judgment or written ruling without reference to a judge or, where Practice Direction 2C applies, to a Justices’ Legal Adviser.

FAMILY PRACTICE DIRECTION 29D – COURT OFFICERS MAKING CORRECTIONS TO ORDERS

The Slip Rule in Civil Law Cases

The Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) were introduced in 1998 and apply to civil law cases in England and Wales. The CPR govern the procedure for civil law cases, including personal injury claims, contract disputes, and defamation claims. Civil Procedure Rule 40.12 sets out the Slip Rule in civil law cases.

Civil Procedure Rule 40.12 of the CPR states :-

(1) The court may at any time correct an accidental slip or omission in a judgment or order.

(2) A party may apply for a correction without notice.

Correction of errors in judgments and orders CPR 40.12

In addition to the Civil Procedure Rule, there is also a Practice Direction that provide guidance on the use of the Slip Rule.

Civil Practice Direction 40B provides guidance on the use of the Slip Rule in civil law cases.

4.1 Where a judgment or order contains an accidental slip or omission a party may apply for it to be corrected 8.

4.2 The application notice (which may be an informal document such as a letter) should describe the error and set out the correction required. An application may be dealt with without a hearing:

(1) where the applicant so requests,

(2) with the consent of the parties, or

(3) where the court does not consider that a hearing would be appropriate.

4.3 The judge may deal with the application without notice if the slip or omission is obvious or may direct notice of the application to be given to the other party or parties.

4.4 If the application is opposed it should, if practicable, be listed for hearing before the judge who gave the judgment or made the order.

4.5 The court has an inherent power to vary its own orders to make the meaning and intention of the court clear.

CIVIL PRACTICE DIRECTION 40B – JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS

The Slip Rule is a legal tool in England and Wales that allows judges to correct typographical or other errors in court orders or judgments. The Slip Rule is included in both the Family Procedure Rules and the Civil Procedure Rules, and there are also Practice Directions that provide guidance on its use.

While the Slip Rule can be used to correct minor errors, it cannot be used to change the substance of a court order or judgment.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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Judiciary Legal Professionals

HHJ Stuart Farquhar

hhj stuart farquhar

HHJ Farquhar was appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 1999, as a District Judge in 2005 and as a Recorder in 2009.

Stuart Alastair Farquhar was appointed a circuit judge, assigned to the South Eastern Circuit, based at Brighton County Court, with effect from October 9th 2013. Judge Farquhar who was 51 at the time, was called to the Bar (I) in 1985. Judge Farquhar was born on the 4th June 1962.

Stuart Alastair Farquhar is called His Honour Judge Farquhar or abbreviated to HHJ Farquhar. In Court he is addressed as Your Honour.

HHJ Farquhar is the Lead Financial Remedies Court (FRC) Judge for Kent, Surrey and Sussex. From KFC to the top of the roost in Sussex !

“I have no family connection to lawyers; father was an engineer and mother looked after me and my two brothers. Attended state schools.

1980-1983 Manchester University

1983-1984 Worked at solicitors during the day and KFC at night & weekends to pay for Bar

School
1984-1985 Bar School

1985-2005 Barrister in Nottingham (after pupillage in London where I was not offered tenancy)
Started doing all types of work but after about five years began to specialise in Family work and then just in money cases on divorce

2005-2013 District Judge in Cambridgeshire – Family and Civil jurisdiction

2013-present Circuit Judge in Brighton – Family Court and Court of Protection

Interests:

Supporting AFC Wimbledon, walking the dog in the rain (other weather conditions are accepted), preferably near pubs with good real ale.

Married: my wife works as an advisor for a Carers Support Organisation.
Two children, neither following a legal career (having seen the impact upon me!)”

University of Brighton Law Careers Question Time 2018

Sussex Family Justice Board Membership

HHJ Stuart Farquhar was listed (up to 18th April 2023) as a board member of the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Website (SFJB), along with a number of Senior Sussex Judges.

HHJ Farquhar was previously listed as a SFJB member in a SFJB document SFJB-List-of-Members.docx dated September 2018. HHJ Farquhar appears to have been a SFJB board member for at least 5 years !

“The judge is not a member of the board as to be so would be incompatible with the independent position of the judiciary.”

Judiciary and the local justice system

A Google Search on the 3rd April 2023 returned the following which clearly shows HHJ Farquhar as a board member :-

Google Search 3rd April 2023

A Bing Search on the 3rd April 2023 returned the following which clearly shows HHJ Farquhar as a board member :-

Bing Search 3rd April 2023

The Sussex Family Justice Board website showed :-

Sussex Family Justice Board Members 3rd April 2023
Sussex Family Justice Board Judicial Board Members 3rd April 2023

The Sussex Family Justice Board website, according to their public RSS Feed, was updated on the 18th April 2023 at 20:37.

Sussex Family Justice Board (SFJB) RSS Feed XML <lastBuildDate>Tue, 18 Apr 2023 20:37:32 +0000</lastBuildDate>

HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Lusty and DJ Pollard have mysteriously been removed as board members. Is this a cynical attempt at a cover up ? Who removed them and why ?

Sussex Family Justice Board Judicial Board Members as of 22nd April 2023
Sussex Family Justice Board Judicial Board Members as of 22nd April 2023
SFJB-List-of-Members.docx dated September 2018
sfjb-board-members-september-2018Download
  • HHJ Farquhar has denied he is a member of the SFJB and that he was ever invited to join.
  • HHJ Farquhar claims he did not know that he was listed on the SFJB website as a board member.
  • HHJ Farquhar stated that he had covered for His Honour Judge Robin Bedford at several SFJB events. He also confirmed that HHJ Bedford, The Designated and Most Senior Family Judge in Sussex, was definitely a member of the board.
  • HHJ Farquhar said that the SFJB had no income and was surprised to learn that they had a treasurer listed as a board member. He accepted that the SFJB must therefore have income and expenditure which should be publicly accounted for.

This is fraud or at the very least highly misleading behaviour by the SFJB by listing a Senior Judge as a board member without their knowledge or approval.

I can only assume this was done to give the SFJB some sense of importance and credibility but only serves to make their activities even more suspicious.

Financial Remedies Court Lead Judge

In the 4th July 2022 Revision of the FINANCIAL REMEDIES COURT (FRC) – OVERALL STRUCTURE OF THE FINANCIAL REMEDIES COURT AND THE ROLE AND FUNCTION OF THE LEAD JUDGE, HHJ Farquhar is listed as the Lead Financial Remedies Court (FRC) Judge for Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

Overall Structure Financial Remedies Court 4th July 2022Download

Farquhar Commitee

“HHJ Stuart Farquhar (Lead Judge of the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Financial Remedies Court (FRC)) was asked by The Honourable Mr Justice Mostyn earlier in 2021 to convene and lead a committee (consisting of a geographically diverse collection of judges at all levels of the judiciary and practitioners).

The committee was to consider in depth and report on the role of remote courts in the post-pandemic environment (Part 1) and the procedures of the Financial Remedies Court (Part 2).

The carefully considered and substantial final reports of the Farquhar Committee (Parts 1 and 2) are now being published so that they may inform decisions on moving matters forward in both these areas.

Report of the Farquhar Committee Part 1

The Financial Remedies Court – The Way Forward
A Paper to consider the future use of Remote Hearings in the FRC (PDF)

Report of the Farquhar Committee Part 2

The Financial Remedies Court – The Way Forward
A Paper to consider changes to the Practices and Procedures in the Financial Remedies Court (PDF)

Reports of the Farquhar Committee on the Financial Remedies Courts – Parts 1 and 2

Transparency Implementation Group Chair

On the the 11th February 2022 The President of the Family Division (PFD) announce that the Financial Remedy Court Transparency Group, will become the fifth sub group of the Transparency Implementation Group (TIG). This group will be chaired by HHJ Stuart Farquhar and will report to the main TIG.

Please refer to the Announcement for the Family Transparency Implementation Group (TIG)

On the 2nd June 2022 an article entitled Transparency in the FRC – The workings of the TIG Sub-Group written by HHJ Farquhar was published on the Transparency Project website.

Company Appointments

HHJ Stuart Farquhar was a Director of KESTEVEN AND GRANTHAM GIRLS’ SCHOOL ACADEMY TRUST (08133675), listing his occupation as District Judge, but resigned on the 9th October 2013 for unknown reasons.

HHJ Farquhar Contact Details

HHJ Stuart Farquhar judicial email address is [email protected] and he is based at the following Court :-

Brighton County Court Family Centre
1-2 Edward Street,
Brighton
BN2 0JD

Tel: 01273 674421
Email: [email protected]

HHJ Farquhar on the Internet

The Ministry of Injustice is delighted to be the No 1 Search result on Google for HHJ Farquhar (6th April 2023)

“Scandalising the judiciary (also referred to as scandalising the court or scandalising judges) is abolished as a form of contempt of court under the common law of England and Wales.”

Crime and Courts Act 2013 Section 33 – Can you criticise a judge ?

HHJ Farquhar Published Judgments

There are a number of HHJ Farquhar judgments available to view online !

His Honour Judge Farquhar admonished solicitor Paul Gardner for branding obsessed LiP a ‘sociopath’. Mary-Jane Grace v Ian Douglas Grace Neutral Citation Number[2025] EWFC 37 (B)

Judge Farquhar Notable Cases

A woman has been ordered to pay half of her ex-husband’s £160,000 gender reassignment surgery bill after a judge ruled the operation was a “need”, not a “whim”.

The 60-year-old woman had argued it was unfair for her to contribute £80,000 towards the cost of the surgery, saying her former spouse’s decision to transition was the reason their marriage ended.

But Judge Stuart Farquhar, sitting at Brighton Family Court, said it was “reasonable” for the couple to split the cost “out of joint resources”.

Judge Farquhar rules woman must pay half of ex-husband’s £160,000 gender surgery bill – The Standard

Is trans surgery really as essential as cancer treatment – Judge Farquhar ?

It’s worth spelling out what this means: a UK court (HHJ Farquhar) considers it reasonable to expect a mother of two children to pay £80,000 towards the cost of her ex-husband obtaining a fake vagina.

Unherd.com – Joan Smith on Judge Farquhar Case

Judge (Farquhar) tells divorcee to pay her ex-husband half the £160,000 cost of his trans surgery in millionaire couple’s court battle

Judge Stuart Farquhar said that while ‘this has been a hugely difficult and emotionally draining experience’ for the trans woman, the husband had ‘shown no understanding whatsoever that her decision to transition to a woman has had an impact on anyone else, and particularly’ his ex-wife.

Daily Mail

Divorcee forced (by Judge Farquhar)to pay half of ex-husband’s trans surgery in legal first

In his ruling the judge noted that the husband had provided medical evidence of gender dysphoria which had caused “significant anxiety, depression and distress” and for which “the vaginoplasty surgery was considered the next appropriate step”

The Telegraph

This article contains personal opinions protected by common law and Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 along with publicly available information.

Image shown is an amateur artists impression by the author and for illustration only. It is not His Honour Judge Stuart Farquhar (HHJ Farquhar)

“Publicity is the very soul of justice. . . . It keeps the judge himself, while trying, under trial….Where there is no publicity there is no justice”

Jeremy Bentham – Mr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Check out our articles on Dodgy Judges, Judges Salaries and Fees, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary KC, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford, DDJ Nicholes, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ? and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

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You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Judiciary Legal Professionals

HHJ Robin Bedford

his honour judge bedford

HHJ Bedford was appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in May 2002, a District Judge in 2007 and a Circuit Judge on the 10th April 2013.

“HM the Queen has appointed Robin Steven Bedford, to be a District Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, Lord Falconer. The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers, has assigned him to the North Eastern Circuit, based in North and West Yorkshire with effect from Monday 19 February 2007. Mr Bedford, 43, was admitted as a solicitor in October 1988.”

Appointment of a district judge – Robin Steven Bedford

Robin Stephen Bedford is called His Honour Judge Bedford or abbreviated to HHJ Bedford. In Court he is addressed as Your Honour.

HHJ Bedford is the Designated Family Judge for Sussex and was originally appointed on the 1st July 2017.

On the 5th August 2025, The Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Baroness Carr Of Walton-On-The-Hill has appointed His Honour Judge Bedford to be a Senior Circuit Judge, Designated Family Judge, based at Brighton Family Centre.

Sussex Family Justice Board Membership

HHJ Robin Bedford was listed as board member of the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Website (SFJB), along with a number of Senior Sussex Judges.

“The judge is not a member of the board as to be so would be incompatible with the independent position of the judiciary.”

Judiciary and the local justice system

A google search returns the following which clearly shows HHJ Bedford as a board member :-

A Bing search returns the following which clearly shows HHJ Bedford as a board member :-

“His Honour Judge Bedford. Designated Family Judge for Sussex. 21 December 2020.

Dear all,. It’s some months since I inflicted one of my bulletins upon you.”

Sussex Family Justice Board 21st December 2020

HHJ Farquhar stated that he had covered for His Honour Judge Robin Bedford at several SFJB events. He also confirmed that HHJ Bedford, The Designated and Most Senior Family Judge in Sussex, was definitely a member of the Sussex Family Justice Board.

It’s refreshing to see an Honour “Stitched Up” by another Honour after an Honour attempted to “Stich” me up !

Is there no such a thing as “Honour” amongst thieves ?

Check out our articles on Dodgy Judges, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Judge Jeremy Richardson KC, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, DDJ Nicholes ,Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ?, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ? and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

HHJ Bedford Contact Details

HHJ Robin Bedford judicial email address is [email protected] and he is based at the following Court :-

Brighton County Court Family Centre
1-2 Edward Street,
Brighton
BN2 0JD

Tel: 01273 674421
Email: [email protected]

HHJ Bedford on the Internet

“Two years ago today this lowlife scumbag made an order knowing it would lead to a fathers death through ill health. Dishonour Judged Bedford will be exposed as the murderer he is. We will never forgive or forget. Still no apology to those involved either from this despicable oxygen thief.”

UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame

“Another mother has come forward about this Monster who calls himself a judge, Bedford.

Again he was swinging on his chair gnawing on a pen while staring around a room in a world of his own.

He put costs before a child’s family being kept together. The family needed either a mother and baby unit to prove they can parent or a home. He ignored this and went with adoption.

How this twisted moron sleeps at night we have no clue. Probably doesn’t and why he’s daydreaming all day!

Wake up Bedford and start helping these families instead of breaking them you twisted individual.”

UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame

His Honour Judge Robin Bedford led the walk this year as posted by Herrington Solicitors.

“Meet ‘Dishonour’ Judge Robin Bedford. (Wonder if there’s something about the name Robin)
He can normally be found masquerading as a Judge at Hastings Court.
He is usually swinging on his chair while daydreaming staring at the ceiling and chewing a Bic Pen. All this while making sure he ignores vital evidence in a case.
This guy is not fit to be a judge and is someone who should never be allowed to preside over the lives of children. In short he is a danger.
The first time we came across this individual he was defending a violent father while the mother suffered the stress of being bullied and having him breach court orders. He ignored the fact that this father had no interest in his own son and the son making sexual allegations against the father. Instead he palmed the case off with a supervised contact order on the daughter and a care order with placement with the mother leaving The Local Authority to sort out the sorry mess of the case.
In the second case we come across him he signed an order of adoption on a second hearing due to a young mum having mental health problems. Knowing the mother didn’t understand the process was of no interest to him. This mother has since proved she can function and should be given a chance with her son.
The third case is the most terrible. Despite warnings and being shown evidence of why he shouldn’t he sent a 2 year old to go and live with her father who was mentally ill and physically disabled. He agreed he would take personal responsibility if anything went wrong. To date he has never apologised. The child was happily attached living with mother, well cared for meeting all her milestones and had minimal attachment to the father. In four months the child regressed in development and was abused as well as neglected. The father then died alone with the child in a flat which the mother warned would happen! The child now back in the mothers care is thriving and ahead of what’s expected of a child. There’s no local authority involvement and in their own words no role for them, they also agree this judge took a dangerous risk and it backfired to the detriment of the child.
This man should never preside over another child case. Any further screw ups by this twisted individual please inbox us!”

UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame

“Scandalising the judiciary (also referred to as scandalising the court or scandalising judges) is abolished as a form of contempt of court under the common law of England and Wales.”

Crime and Courts Act 2013 Section 33 – Can you criticise a judge ?

Images of HHJ Bedford

The images shown on this page are from the Facebook Group UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame . These images are believed to be of His Honour Judge Robin Bedford (HHJ Bedford).

Permission to use these images was sought from UK Corrupt Family Courts Name and Shame but no response was forthcoming.

I use these images under the Copyright exception of fair dealing, education and in the spirit of public interest.

This article contains personal opinions protected by common law and Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 along with publicly available information.

“Publicity is the very soul of justice. . . . It keeps the judge himself, while trying, under trial….Where there is no publicity there is no justice”

Jeremy Bentham – Mr Justice Cobb: ‘Justice must be seen to be done’

Check out our articles on Dodgy Judges, Mr Justice Williams, His Honour Judge Melbourne Inman KC, His Honour Andrew Menary KC, His Honour Now His Dishonour, His Honour Judge Michael Slater, His Honour Judge Martin Davis, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford, DDJ Nicholes, Do you Have to Bow to a Judge ?, Can you Email a Judge ?, Can you Criticise a Judge ? and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

Most Popular ↓

You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Legal Analysis

CAFCASS – Children and Family Court Advisory and Support

Cafcass -Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service

Cafcass stands for Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. Cafcass “independently advise the family courts about what is safe for children and in their best interests”

Cafcass has come under scrutiny in recent years due to a number of controversies and criticisms. One of the main criticisms has been utter incompetence, bias and the high caseloads faced by FCAs. This made it difficult for Cafcass to provide the level of support and attention needed by children and families.

Cafcass has a number of resources available on its website to help families understand the court process and their rights, including guides on child arrangements, parental responsibility, and adoption. Cafcass also provides a range of support services for children, including counselling and therapy.

Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service and Family Court Reform

The research briefing Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service and Family Court reform was published on the House of Commons Library website in advance of the Westminster Hall debate held on Wednesday 22nd March 2023.

Hansard which is the the official report of all Parliamentary debates, published the full transcript of the debate on the webpage Family Court Reform and CAFCASS Volume 730.

Family-Court-Reform-and-CAFCASS-2023-03-22Download

Cafcass and the Sussex Family Justice Board (SFJB)

Cafcass staff are listed as board member of the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Website (SFJB), along with a number of Senior Sussex Judges including HHJ Bedford and HHJ Farquhar.

Is the Sussex Family Justice Board evidence of bias, secrecy and injustice rife within the judiciary, justice system and legal profession in the UK ?

About Cafcass

Cafcass represents children in family court cases in England. Cafcass independently advise the family courts about what is safe for children and in their best interests. Cafcass put their needs, wishes and feelings first, making sure that children’s voices are heard at the heart of the family court setting. Operating within the law set by Parliament (Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000) and under the rules and directions of the family courts, we are independent of the courts, social services, education and health authorities and all similar agencies.

Cafcass duty is to safeguard and promote the welfare of children going through the family justice system, supporting over 140,000 children every year by understanding their experiences and speaking up for them when the family court makes critical decisions about their futures.

Cafcass is the largest employer of qualified social workers in England and is deeply committed to making a positive difference to each child we support. We are proud that everyone working for Cafcass is united in improving the lives of children, families and carers.

Our experienced Family Court Advisers (FCA) may be asked by the court to work with families and then advise the court on what we consider to be the best interests of the children involved in three main areas:

  • divorce and separation, sometimes called ‘private law’, where parents or carers can’t agree on arrangements for their children
  • care proceedings, sometimes called ‘public law’, where social services have serious concerns about the safety or welfare of a child
  • adoption, which can be either public or private law.

Cafcass also actively work with our partners to identify solutions to help reduce the increasing pressures on the family courts and to improve the experiences and outcomes for children and families.

Cafcass About Us

History of Cafcass

The Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) was formed on 1 April 2001 as part of the Government’s commitment to supporting families and children.

It brought together the services previously provided by the Family Court Welfare Service, the Guardian ad Litem Services and the Children’s divisions of the Official Solicitor’s Office.

Cafcass is sponsored by the Ministry of Justice and is a non-departmental public body.

Cafcass History

Cafcass Annual report and accounts

Cafcass annual reports and accounts are laid before Parliament and show how Cafcass performed each year and how they spent their budget.

The Annual Report and Accounts 2021-22  were approved by the Cafcass Board in October 2022, subject to any changes from the National Audit Office (NAO). The accounts were signed off by the NAO on 12 December 2022.

Cafcass Annual Report FINAL-2021_22-DigitalDowNLOAD

Cafacss logo used under Copyright exception “Fair dealing for criticism, review or quotation.”

Check out our article on the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board and make up your own mind.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

Latest Articles ↓

Most Popular ↓

You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Categories
Judiciary

What is a Magistrate ?

what is a magistrate

In the United Kingdom, magistrates are volunteer judges who are appointed to serve in local courts. Magistrates are also known as justices of the peace (JP).

Magistrates hear a range of criminal and civil cases, and they are responsible for making decisions on whether a case should be heard by a higher court or not. In this article, we will explore the role of magistrates in the UK, their responsibilities, and how they are appointed.

History of Magistrates

The history of magistrates in the UK can be traced back to the 12th century when the first justices of the peace were appointed by King Henry II. These justices of the peace were responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the law in their local communities.

Over time, the role of justices of the peace evolved, and they began to hear cases and make judgments in local courts. The modern magistrates’ court system can be traced back to the 19th century when the first modern magistrates’ court was established in Bow Street, London.

The creation of magistrates’ courts was part of a wider reform of the criminal justice system in the 19th century. Before this, the criminal justice system was based on a system of punishment and retribution, with little emphasis on rehabilitation or the rights of the accused.

The creation of magistrates’ courts marked a significant shift in the approach to criminal justice in the UK. The emphasis was now on rehabilitation and addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, rather than simply punishing offenders.

Magistrates were initially appointed by local justices of the peace, but in 1919, the responsibility for appointing magistrates was transferred to the Lord Chancellor.

Despite the changes in the role of magistrates over the years, their fundamental principles remain the same. They are volunteers who serve their local community and uphold the law in a fair and impartial manner.

The Role of Magistrates

Magistrates are responsible for hearing cases in the magistrates’ court, which is the lowest tier of the court system in the UK. They are also responsible for making decisions on whether a case should be sent to a higher court, such as the Crown Court. Magistrates’ courts deal with around 95% of all criminal cases in England and Wales.

Magistrates’ duties vary from deciding whether a defendant should be granted bail to deciding whether a defendant is guilty or not guilty of a criminal offence. They also have the power to impose sentences, such as fines, community service orders, and prison sentences of up to six months.

Magistrates also hear civil cases, such as disputes over unpaid debts, and family cases, such as child custody and adoption. In these cases, magistrates are responsible for making decisions on issues such as child custody arrangements, financial support, and visitation rights.

How to become a Magistrate ?

Before you can apply to become a magistrate, you must visit your local court or research how family courts work to prepare for your application.

You must visit a criminal court at least twice in the 12 months before you apply. You’ll be asked about this in your application.

Find your nearest court. The court will tell you when to visit and which courtrooms to see.

Research how family courts work (*)

You cannot visit a family court because these cases are heard in private. To prepare for your application, you must research what it’s like working as a family court magistrate.

Prepare for your application

When you apply you’ll be asked to give examples to show that you can:

  • understand and appreciate different perspectives
  • communicate with sensitivity and respect
  • work and engage with people professionally
  • make fair, impartial and transparent decisions
  • show self-awareness and be open to learning

You also need to provide 2 references. If you’re employed, one of them must be from your employer. They cannot be a relative or someone you live with.

How to apply online

Visit the magistrates website to find a role in your area and apply.

If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to an interview.

If there are no roles available near you

You can register your interest. You’ll get an email when a role in your area is available.

Become a magistrate gov.uk

(*) Unsurprisingly the gov.uk website is out of date and this statement is untrue.

Open justice is a fundamental principle in our courts and tribunals system, and will continue to be as we increase the use of audio and video technology.

Requests from the media and others to observe a hearing remotely In The County Court and The Family Court at Brighton should be made direct to: [email protected] or by calling 0300 1235577. Arrangements will then be made to enable you to attend.

Family Courts and Open Justice / Brighton County Court Courtserve

The Appointment of Magistrates

Magistrates are appointed by the Lord Chancellor, who is the UK government’s Minister of Justice. Magistrates are not required to have any legal qualifications, but they must be over 18 years old and under 70 years old. They must also have no criminal convictions.

Magistrates are selected by local advisory committees, which are made up of people from the local community. These committees are responsible for assessing candidates’ suitability for the role and making recommendations to the Lord Chancellor. The Lord Chancellor then appoints the successful candidates.

Magistrates are appointed for a period of five years and can be reappointed for another five years. Magistrates are volunteers and are not paid for their work. However, they are reimbursed for their expenses, such as travel costs and subsistence.

Training for Magistrates

Magistrates receive training before they take up their role, which includes classroom-based training and on-the-job training. The training covers areas such as court procedures, legal principles, and sentencing guidelines.

Magistrates also receive ongoing training throughout their term of office to ensure that they are up to date with changes in the law and court procedures.

Diversity among Magistrates

There has been criticism in the past that magistrates are not representative of the communities they serve, with concerns that they are predominantly white, middle-class, and elderly. In recent years, efforts have been made to address this issue, with initiatives to encourage a more diverse range of people to become magistrates.

The Judicial Diversity Committee was established in 2010 to promote diversity in the judiciary, including magistrates. The committee’s aim is to encourage more women, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities to apply for judicial positions.

In 2019, the Ministry of Justice launched a campaign to encourage more young people to become magistrates. The campaign highlighted the benefits of becoming a magistrate, such as gaining new skills, meeting new people, and contributing to the community.

Magistrates play a crucial role in the UK’s justice system, ensuring that justice is administered fairly and efficiently at the local level. They are appointed based on their suitability, and they receive training to ensure that they are able to carry out their duties effectively. Efforts are being made to encourage a more diverse range of people to become magistrates, to ensure that the magistrates are more representative of the communities they serve.

Magistrates provide a valuable service to their local community by hearing cases and making decisions that affect the lives of individuals. Their role is an important one and is essential in ensuring that the justice system is accessible to all.

For more information on the role of magistrates in the UK, the following websites may be useful:

  1. The Magistrates Association – https://www.magistrates-association.org.uk/ The Magistrates Association is a membership organization that represents magistrates in England and Wales. They provide support, training, and guidance to magistrates, and they also work to promote the role of magistrates in the justice system.
  2. Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service – https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-courts-and-tribunals-service Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service is responsible for the administration of the courts and tribunals in England and Wales. Their website provides information on the different types of courts and tribunals, including magistrates’ courts.
  3. Judicial Appointments Commission – https://judicialappointments.gov.uk/ The Judicial Appointments Commission is responsible for selecting and appointing judges in England and Wales, including magistrates. Their website provides information on the appointment process, as well as guidance for potential candidates.

Check out our related articles on Chief Magistrate, Dodgy Magistrates, Judiciary, Complain About a Magistrate, Rule of Law, Open Justice, Is the Law Black and White ?, Abuse of Process, What Does Lady Justice Symbolise ?, McKenzie Friend, Law Society, Law Commission, McKenzie Friend Right of Audience, Solicitors, Solicitors Regulation Authority, Barristers, Bar Council of England and Wales, Bar Standards Board, R v Sussex Justices, Police Impartiality and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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Law

Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR)

pecr cookies and privacy

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) are two sets of rules that govern data protection and electronic marketing communications in the UK.

PECR was introduced in 2003 and updated in 2011, while GDPR came into effect in 2018, replacing the Data Protection Act 1998.

Their full title of PECR is The Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003 which is derived from European law. PECR implement European Directive 2002/58/EC, also known as ‘the e-privacy Directive’.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) publish a Guide to Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations.

Consent and opt-in

One of the key principles of both GDPR and PECR is that marketers must obtain the consent of individuals before processing their personal data or sending them electronic marketing messages. This means that individuals must actively opt-in to receive marketing messages and must be given the opportunity to easily opt-out of receiving future messages. Examples of electronic marketing messages include emails, text messages, and direct messages on social media platforms.

Cookies and online tracking

Both GDPR and PECR govern the use of cookies and other tracking technologies on websites. Websites must obtain consent from users before placing cookies on their devices, except in cases where the cookies are strictly necessary for the functioning of the website. The regulations also require website owners to provide clear and comprehensive information about the types of cookies used on their sites and their purposes.

There are two exemptions which apply where:

  • the cookie is for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network; or
  • the cookie is strictly necessary to provide an ‘information society service’ (eg a service over the internet) requested by the subscriber or user. Note that it must be essential to fulfil their request – cookies that are helpful or convenient but not essential, or that are only essential for your own purposes, will still require consent.

Direct marketing

Direct marketing is a type of marketing that involves sending messages directly to individuals, such as through email or direct mail. GDPR and PECR require that individuals are given the opportunity to opt-out of receiving direct marketing messages, and that marketers must stop sending messages to individuals who have opted-out. The regulations also prohibit the use of pre-ticked boxes or other forms of consent that are automatically applied to individuals.

Complaints

The concerns section of the ICO website contains more information on when and how individuals can report their concerns to the ICO.

If someone complains about your electronic marketing (eg spam calls or texts), cookies or other privacy issues regarding electronic communications, we will record and review their concerns, and we may investigate your compliance with PECR. If we decide it is likely you have failed to comply with PECR or other data protection legislation, we may ask you to take steps to remedy this and avoid similar complaints in future. If appropriate, we may decide to take enforcement action.

Guide to PECR ICO

Enforcement and penalties

Both GDPR and PECR are enforced in the UK by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). The ICO has the power to investigate and take enforcement action against organisations that breach the regulations, including imposing fines and other penalties.

In 2021, the ICO fined British Airways and Marriott International for breaching GDPR, with fines of £20m and £18.4m respectively.

GDPR and PECR are important sets of regulations that govern data protection and electronic marketing communications in the UK.

Marketers must obtain the consent of individuals before processing their personal data or sending them marketing messages, provide clear and comprehensive information about the use of cookies on their websites, and give individuals the opportunity to opt-out of receiving direct marketing messages.

Failure to comply with GDPR and PECR can result in significant fines and other penalties, so it is essential for organizations to ensure they are following the regulations carefully.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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Legal Analysis

What is a Contract ?

what is a contract

Contracts are are used to establish legally binding agreements between parties which can written or oral. Contracts can be simply described as a promise enforceable by law.

In the UK, contracts are governed by the common law, which is a body of law that is derived from judicial decisions rather than legislation.

This article will provide an overview of contracts and contract law in the UK, including the key elements of a contract, the types of contracts, and the remedies available for breach of contract.

Elements of a Contract

There are four essential elements of a contract in UK law: offer, acceptance, consideration, and intention to create legal relations.

  1. An offer is a proposal made by one party to another party that is capable of acceptance. The offer must be sufficiently clear and definite so that the other party can understand what is being offered.
  2. Acceptance is the unqualified agreement to the terms of an offer. The acceptance must be communicated to the offeror and must be made in the manner specified in the offer, or in a reasonable manner if no manner is specified
  3. Consideration is something of value that is given in exchange for something else. The consideration must be something that the parties have agreed to exchange and must be sufficient, but need not be adequate. In other words, the consideration must be of some value, but it does not have to be of equal value to the other party’s consideration.
  4. In order for a contract to be enforceable, both parties must intend to create legal relations. This means that the parties must have a serious intention to be bound by the contract and that the agreement is not merely a social or domestic arrangement.

Types of Contracts

There are many different types of contracts that can be formed in the UK. Some of the most common types of contracts include:

  1. Express contracts are contracts that are formed by the express agreement of the parties. This means that the terms of the contract are explicitly stated either in writing or orally.
  2. Implied contracts are contracts that are formed by the conduct of the parties rather than by their express agreement. In other words, the parties’ actions indicate that they have agreed to certain terms.
  3. Unilateral contracts are contracts in which one party makes a promise in exchange for the other party’s performance. The contract is formed when the second party performs the requested act.
  4. Bilateral contracts are contracts in which both parties make promises to each other. The contract is formed when both parties have made their promises.
  5. Void contracts are contracts that are not enforceable by law. These contracts may be illegal, impossible to perform, or the result of a mistake or fraud.
  6. Voidable contracts are contracts that are valid, but may be avoided by one or both parties. These contracts may be avoided because of a mistake, misrepresentation, undue influence, or duress.

What is an Unfair Contract ?

An unfair contract is a contract that contains terms and conditions that are deemed to be unjust, unreasonable, or unconscionable. These terms may provide one party with an unfair advantage over the other or impose burdens or restrictions on one party that are significantly disproportionate to the benefits received.

Unfair contracts can take many forms and can be found in a variety of contexts, including consumer contracts, employment contracts, and commercial contracts. Examples of unfair contract terms might include clauses that:

  • Limit liability for one party while providing no such protection for the other
  • Grant one party the right to terminate the contract without cause or notice, while denying the same right to the other party
  • Give one party the exclusive right to make decisions or take actions that affect both parties
  • Provide for automatic renewals or extensions of the contract without sufficient notice or opportunity to terminate
  • Require one party to waive certain legal rights or remedies in exchange for entering into the contract

The exact criteria for what constitutes an unfair contract may vary. In general, however, an unfair contract is one that places one party at a significant disadvantage and is not the result of a freely negotiated agreement between the parties.

Remedies for Breach of Contract

If one party breaches a contract, the other party may have legal remedies available to them. Some of the most common remedies for breach of contract include:

  1. Damages are a monetary award that is intended to compensate the non-breaching party for the loss suffered as a result of the breach.
  2. Specific performance is a court order that requires the breaching party to fulfil their obligations under the contract.
  3. An injunction is a court order that prohibits the breaching party from doing something that would cause harm to the non-breaching party.
  4. Rescission is the cancellation of the contract and the parties are put back into the position in which they were before the contract was made.. This remedy is available when one or both parties have been induced to enter into the contract by fraud or mistake.

Contracts and contract law are complex topics that require careful consideration and attention to detail. By understanding the elements of a contract, types of contracts, and remedies for breach of contract, businesses and individuals can protect their interests and ensure that they operate in compliance with UK law.

We recommend you should always seek formal legal advice if required, from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

Check out our articles on  What is the Law ?, R v Sussex Justices, Rule of Law, Litigants in Person, McKenzie Friends, HHJ Farquhar, HHJ Bedford and the highly dubious Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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Law

What is the Law ?

what is law

The law is a fundamental aspect of any society, and the United Kingdom is no exception.

The law governs our everyday lives, providing a framework for behaviour and a means to resolve disputes. But what exactly is law in the UK ?

‘If you think the criminal courts are dysfunctional, take a look at the family court system. Just a giant money tree for the lawyers.’

Chris Daw KC

Sources of UK Law

The UK legal system is based on common law, which means that laws are created through court decisions as well as through legislation. The main sources of UK law are:

  1. Statute law – Statute law is law that is created by Parliament through Acts of Parliament. These laws are written down and apply to everyone in the UK. Statute law can only be changed or repealed by Parliament. Examples of statutory law include the Human Rights Act 1998, the Equality Act 2010, and the Accessories and Abettors Act 1861.
  2. Common law – Common law is law that is created through court decisions. Judges use precedents (previous court decisions) to decide cases, and these decisions then become part of the law. Common law can be changed or overridden by statute law. Examples of common law include the principles of negligence and tort law.
  3. European Union law – The UK was a member of the European Union until 2020, and during that time, EU law had an impact on UK law. EU law includes regulations, directives, and decisions, and it takes precedence over UK law. Examples of EU law include the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Working Time Directive, and the Environmental Liability Directive.
  4. International law – International law is the set of rules and principles that govern relations between states. The UK is bound by international treaties and agreements, and international law can also be used to interpret UK law. Examples of international law include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Geneva Conventions, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Principles of UK Law

There are several key principles that underpin UK law. These include:

  1. The Rule of Law – This principle means that everyone is subject to the law, including the government. The law is applied fairly and equally to everyone, and no one is above the law. The rule of law ensures that the legal system is fair, predictable, and consistent.
  2. Parliamentary Sovereignty – This principle means that Parliament is the supreme law-making authority in the UK. Parliament can make or unmake any law, and no other body can override or challenge its decisions. This principle gives Parliament significant power over the legal system and ensures that the law reflects the will of the people.
  3. Separation of Powers – This principle means that the UK government is divided into three branches: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Each branch has its own powers and responsibilities, and they act as a check on each other to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
  4. Human Rights – The UK is bound by various international human rights treaties and agreements, including the European Convention on Human Rights. These treaties and agreements provide legal protection for fundamental human rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial.

Structure of UK Law

The UK legal system is hierarchical, with different courts having different levels of authority. The highest court in the UK is the Supreme Court, which is the final court of appeal for all civil and criminal cases in the UK. Below the Supreme Court are the Court of Appeal, the High Court, and various lower courts such as the Magistrates’ Court and the Crown Court.

In conclusion, the law is an essential aspect of UK society, providing a framework for behaviour and a means to resolve disputes.

UK law is based on common law and statutory law, and it is underpinned by principles such as the rule of law, parliamentary sovereignty, separation of powers, and human rights.

The UK legal system is hierarchical, with different courts having different levels of authority, and the Supreme Court being the final court of appeal.

Check out our related articles on Rule of Law, Open Justice, Is the Law Black and White ?, Branches of Law, Abuse of Process, What Does Lady Justice Symbolise ?, McKenzie Friend, Can a Judge Direct a Jury to Find a Defendant Not Guilty ?, Law Society, Law Commission, McKenzie Friend Right of Audience, Solicitors, Solicitors Regulation Authority, Barristers, Bar Council of England and Wales, Bar Standards Board, Contra Mundum, R v Sussex Justices, Police Impartiality and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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Law

Accessories and Abettors Act 1861

Accessories and Abettors Act 1861

This Accessories and Abettors Act 1861 was introduced to clarify the legal position of those who assist, encourage, or facilitate the commission of a crime. It is therefore a piece of legislation that has had a significant impact on criminal law in England and Wales.

Could a Senior Financial Remedy Judge such as HHJ Farquhar, whilst sitting in Private, have committed a criminal offence under Section 3 of Accessories and Abettors Act 1861 by “encouraging and turning a blind eye” to an allegation of fraud ?

The Rule of Law is clear that “no one is above the law”.

Prior to the introduction of this Act, the law surrounding accomplices was unclear and inconsistent.

The Accessories and Abettors Act 1861 aimed to address this by providing a clear and consistent framework for dealing with those who aid or encourage the commission of a crime.

The Act consists of three sections, each dealing with a different aspect of criminal liability.

Section 1 deals with those who aid, abet, counsel or procure the commission of an offence. This section makes it an offence to aid, abet, counsel or procure the commission of an offence, even if the person who aids or encourages the offence does not actually commit the offence themselves.

Section 2 of the Act deals with those who are present at the scene of a crime and who help the person who has committed the offence to escape punishment. This section makes it an offence to assist a person who has committed an offence to avoid arrest, trial or punishment.

Section 3 of the Act deals with those who receive, relieve, comfort or assist a person who has committed an offence, knowing that person to be guilty of that offence. This section makes it an offence to help someone who has committed a crime to evade justice.

Accessories and Abettors Act 1861Download

The Accessories and Abettors Act 1861 has been used in a wide range of criminal cases, from minor offences such as shoplifting to more serious crimes such as murder. It has proved to be a useful tool for prosecutors, allowing them to hold not only the principal offender but also those who aided or encouraged the offence to account.

In recent years, the Act has been used in cases involving cybercrime and terrorism. For example, in 2015, a man was charged under Section 1 of the Act for providing material support to ISIS. In this case, the man was not directly involved in any terrorist activities himself, but he was found to have provided financial and logistical support to those who were.

While the Accessories and Abettors Act 1861 has been a useful tool for prosecutors, it is not without its critics. Some have argued that the Act is too broad and can be used to prosecute individuals who had only a minor role in a crime.

Others have argued that the Act is outdated and in need of reform to take into account modern technology and the changing nature of criminal activity.

In conclusion, the Accessories and Abettors Act 1861 has been an important piece of legislation in the development of criminal law in England and Wales.

Its clear and consistent framework for dealing with accomplices has helped to ensure that those who aid or encourage the commission of a crime can be held accountable for their actions. However, as with any piece of legislation, there is always room for debate and discussion about its effectiveness and potential for reform.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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Oldest Legislation that is still in use today ?

Oldest Legislation

Here are the 25 oldest pieces of UK legislation, in chronological order, that are still in use today :-

  1. Statute of Marlborough 1267: This statute established the common law in England, including the principle of due process, the right to a fair trial, and the requirement that legal disputes be resolved by a jury.
  2. Magna Carta 1297: This historic document established the principle of the rule of law and limited the power of the monarch by granting certain rights and freedoms to the people.
  3. Statute of Westminster 1275: This statute set out the legal procedure for bringing criminal charges and introduced the concept of “treason” as a criminal offense.
  4. Quia Emptores 1290: This statute regulated the sale of land and established the principle of subinfeudation, which allowed tenants to sublet or sell their land.
  5. Statute of Gloucester 1278: This statute set out the legal procedure for bringing civil claims and established the principle of “trial by jury.”
  6. De Donis Conditionalibus 1285: This statute established the concept of “fee tail” in property law, which allowed landowners to restrict the inheritance of their property.
  7. Statute of Quo Warranto 1290: This statute regulated the granting of royal charters and established the principle that all franchises and liberties should be granted by the king or his representative.
  8. Westminster II 1285: This statute regulated the use of the writ of “novel disseisin,” which allowed a landowner to recover property that had been taken by force.
  9. Statute of Winchester 1285: This statute established the principle of “hue and cry,” which required all citizens to assist in the capture of criminals and the maintenance of law and order.
  10. Articuli Super Chartas 1300: This statute confirmed the rights and privileges granted in Magna Carta and established the principle that the king was subject to the law.
  11. The Charter of the Forest 1217: This historic document granted certain rights and freedoms to the people, including the right to use the royal forests for grazing and hunting.
  12. The Charter of Liberties 1100: This historic document granted certain rights and freedoms to the people, including the right to a fair trial and protection from arbitrary imprisonment.
  13. The Assize of Clarendon 1166: This law established the principle of “trial by jury” and regulated the legal procedure for criminal trials.
  14. The Statute of Mortmain 1279: This statute regulated the transfer of land to the church and limited the ability of religious orders to acquire land.
  15. The Statute of Westminster II 1285: This statute established the principle of “trial by jury” in civil cases and regulated the use of the writ of “novel disseisin.”
  16. The Statute of Merton 1235: This statute regulated the use of “common land” and established the principle that landowners could enclose their land.
  17. The Statute of Marlborough 1267: This statute established the principle of “trial by jury” and regulated the legal procedure for civil trials.
  18. The Statute of Westminster III 1354: This statute established the principle of “due process” and granted certain rights to accused persons, including the right to a fair trial.
  19. The Statute of Westminster I 1275: This statute regulated the legal procedure for criminal trials and introduced the concept of “treason” as a criminal offense.
  20. The Statute of Gloucester 1278: This statute established the principle of “trial by jury” and regulated the legal procedure for civil trials.
  21. The Statute of Quia Emptores 1290: This statute regulated the sale of land and limited the ability of tenants to sublet or sell their land.
  22. The Statute of Winchester 1285: This statute regulated the maintenance of law and order and established the principle of “hue and cry.”
  23. The Statute of Northampton 1328: This statute regulated the use of force by constables and established the principle that individuals had the right to protect themselves and their property.
  24. The Statute of Westminster I 1275 (Second enactment): This statute regulated the legal procedure for civil trials and established the principle of “trial by jury.”
  25. The Statute of Treasons 1351: This statute established the concept of “high treason” as a criminal offense and regulated the legal procedure for treason trials.

It is worth noting that while these laws are still technically in use, many have been amended or repealed over the centuries, and their relevance in modern legal practice is limited.

If you wish to learn more about these laws or access their full text, you can search for them on the official UK legislation website.

What is an Act of Parliament ?

An Act of Parliament creates a new law or changes an existing law. An Act is a Bill that has been approved by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords and been given Royal Assent by the Monarch. Taken together, Acts of Parliament make up what is known as Statute Law in the UK.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession, police or any other law enforcement agencies.

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