The Rule Of Law

Our world would be one of anarchy without the “Rule of Law”. Our interactions with others and with the state depend on the rules of contract law, consumer law, land law, employment law, financial law, the law of nuisance and negligence, family law, criminal law, and of course, public and constitutional law. These are just some of the main areas of law there are many other branches of law. As responsible citizens we observe the law on a daily basis, but ironically most of the time this is subliminal we are not fully aware that this is what we are doing our relationship with the law is almost automatic. Given the pervasive nature of law, it is somewhat surprising that we are expected to know the law. It is almost as if we are assumed to have an inherent understanding of the rules we must abide by. How very strange!

As a lecturer in law, it always surprises me how very little my students know about the subject I teach, and about the law in general. Even more interesting is the fact that many people have misconceptions about the law and erroneous notions of what it involves. A sociologist (aka sceptic!) would have various explanations for why this is. Whatever the reason, it is a fact that we are often unaware of the nature of the law that governs our lives.

So how much do you know about the law? This session will identify some common legal misconceptions and will then focus on one particular area of law. You will be asked to decide on the truth and falsity of some legal propositions, so bring a pen!

Carol is a non-practising barrister and Principal Lecturer in Law at a London University. She has been lecturing in law for 20 years and has taught many subjects, from Construction Law to Negligence and the Law of Evidence.

£3 on the door with all proceeds going to charity