Law
The A-level Law course covers a variety of interesting topics. The course takes you from how laws are made, the people who work in the legal system, the criminal law, civil law, human rights and the nature of law.
This course is assessed by three exams at the end of the two year course. You will develop legal skills and will be required to evaluate the law and apply it to novel situations. A-level law provides a general introduction to the law and is for anyone who is interested in a career in the legal profession or just interested in finding out how the legal system works.
![Photograph of an A level Law student](https://aquinasstaging.voodooagency.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/coursebanner_law2-1920x700.jpg)
Topics covered:
- Sources of Law – how laws are made including parliament and judge-made law.
- English Legal System – learn about the people who work in the law (solicitors, barrister, judges, magistrates, police and juries); and the way the law works (courts, appeals, bail and sentencing).
- Criminal Law – we learn fatal offences such as murder, non-fatal offence such GBH, property offences including theft and defences such as self-defence.
- Tort – this section covers civil laws such as negligence, nuisance and occupiers’ liability.
- Human Rights – explore the rights and freedoms included in the Human Rights Act e.g. the right to a fair trial.
- Nature of Law – discuss the links between law and morality, society, justice and technology.
Some students take A-level law because they already know that they want a career in law. The A-level gives an excellent introduction for students who want to read law at university or chose a legal apprenticeship. Universities recognise the advantages of A-level law and the old view that it should not be studied has long since faded away. Legal careers include: solicitor, barrister, legal apprentice, legal executive, police officer, licenced conveyancer, insurance broker, health and safety officer, probation service.
The benefits of studying A-level law are numerous. The specification is engaging and encourages the learner to experience the ‘law in action’.
Visits:
- Magistrates’ Court
- Crown Court
- Court of Appeal
- Supreme Court
- Houses of Parliament