Legal Method provides a lively introduction to both the nature of the English legal system and its sources, and the techniques which lawyers use when handling those sources. Now in its seventh edition, Legal Method is a popular text for those who want a clear introduction to the subject. This edition has been fully updated throughout.
'This book continues to be the most erudite and yet readable book of its kind'
-Leonard Jason-Lloyd, Visiting Fellow at the Midlands Centre for Criminology and Criminal Justice, Loughborough University, UK
NB Was at Department of Criminology, University of Leicester when he gave us that quote in July 2007. Will need to check if planning to use this anywhere.
PART I: AN INTRODUCTION TO LAW AND LEGAL REASONING
The Classifications of English Law
The Jurisdictions of the Principal English Courts
The Constitutional Context of Legal Method
The Legal Structure of the European Community
The Enforceability of European Community Law in the United Kingdom
European Community Law and National Sovereignty
The Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms
Finding, Citing and Using the Sources of Law
PART II: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE DOCTRINE OF BINDING PRECEDENT
Ratio Decidendi and Obiter Dictum
Vertical and Horizontal Dimensions of Precedent
Does the House of Lords Bind Itself?
Does the Court of Appeal Bind Itself?
Does the High Court Bind Itself?
Precedent as a Vehicle for Law Reform
Precedent and Principle in the European Court of Justice
PART III: STATUTE LAW AND STATUTORY INTERPRETATION
An Introduction to Statute Law and Statutory Interpretation
Legislative Drafting
Plain Meanings, Mischiefs, Purposes and Legislative Intention
Modern Interpretation in Practice
Legislative Interpretation in the European Court of Justice
IAN McLEOD, formerly Head of Law at London Metropolitan University, is currently Visiting Professor of Law at the University of Teesside, UK. Following professional experience as a local government lawyer and a prosecuting solicitor, he has specialized in teaching Legal Method, Legal Theory and Public Law. His other publications include Legal Theory in the Palgrave Law Masters series.