CILEx L3 English Legal System & Court Structure 1

Question 1

Which court is the highest court in England and Wales for civil matters?

Accepted Answer

The Supreme Court

Answer

The Supreme Court is the final court of appeal in England and Wales for civil cases, replacing the House of Lords in 2009.

Question 2

Which doctrine requires lower courts to follow decisions of higher courts?

Accepted Answer

Stare decisis

Answer

Stare decisis means 'to stand by decisions' and is the doctrine that binds lower courts to follow precedents set by higher courts.

Question 3

What is the role of the Magistrates' Court in criminal proceedings?

Accepted Answer

It hears summary offences and conducts preliminary hearings for indictable offences

Answer

Magistrates' Courts handle summary offences (less serious crimes) and conduct initial hearings for indictable offences before sending them to the Crown Court.

Question 4

What is the meaning of 'ratio decidendi'?

Accepted Answer

The reason for the decision

Answer

Ratio decidendi is Latin for 'the reason for the decision' and is the binding part of a judgment that creates precedent.

Question 5

Which court hears appeals in civil cases from the County Court?

Accepted Answer

The Court of Appeal (Civil Division)

Answer

The Court of Appeal (Civil Division) hears appeals from the County Court and certain High Court decisions.

CILEx Level 3 Practice Test

CILEx Level 3 Practice Test

CILEx L3 English Legal System & Court Structure 1