First Steps in the Law is an entertaining and insightful overview of the legal system. Geoffrey Rivlin, who boasts a wealth of experience as a former senior resident judge, barrister, and QC, leads the reader through the quirks of English law, offering fascinating details. Readers are regaled with lively descriptions of the workings of the legal system and vivid tales of the law in times gone by. Real life cases bring the book to life, enabling the reader to see the law in action, while descriptions of the participants in the legal system (including judges, lawyers, and police officers) root the book in the everyday reality of the legal profession. This is an essential read for anyone who is preparing for a law course or requires an understanding of the law in their working life.

- An ideal introduction for anyone who is considering a career in the law, preparing for university, or embarking on a law course at college or school — A lively and accessible introduction to law, covering the history and workings of the courts and their personnel — Includes topical issues such as human rights and drugs — Geoffrey Rivlin's engaging style provides a fascinating insight into the English legal system New to this edition — Fully updated to include several new cases in the final chapter of the book, including the Catherine Zeta Jones case, giving the reader an up-to-date introduction to the workings of the English legal system — Includes lots of new examples to illustrate the descriptions and further engage the reader — Includes extended coverage on judicial precedent, human rights, and European law Understanding the Law is an engaging and accessible introduction to the law. Geoffrey Rivlin provides a wealth of fascinating detail about the legal system and the many people who participate in it, from judges to MPs and police officers. The book describes how laws are made and how cases are tried, and includes chapters on the principles involved in the administration of justice, the development of the common law, the constitution, legal professions, and courts. An updated selection of real-life cases help bring the book to life, and there are questions to accompany each chapter to encourage the reader to engage with the material. This book is ideal for anyone considering a career in the law, preparing for university, or embarking on a law course at school or college.