LNAT Legal Reasoning 2

Question 1

A statute states: 'No vehicles are permitted in the park.' A man enters the park on a motorized wheelchair. Which interpretive approach would most likely permit his entry?

Accepted Answer

Purposive approach

Answer

The purposive approach considers legislative intent — if the law aimed to reduce noise/danger, a medical device may be excluded.

Question 2

Under the doctrine of precedent, which court's decisions are strictly binding on all other English courts?

Accepted Answer

Supreme Court

Answer

The Supreme Court sits at the apex of the hierarchy and its decisions bind all lower courts.

Question 3

A defendant is charged with theft. The prosecution proves he took the item but cannot prove he intended to permanently deprive the owner. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Acquittal on theft

Answer

Theft requires both actus reus (taking) and mens rea (intent to permanently deprive); without the latter, the theft charge fails.

Question 4

Which principle holds that a person cannot benefit from their own wrongdoing in law?

Accepted Answer

Ex turpi causa

Answer

Ex turpi causa (unclean hands) prevents a claimant from relying on their own illegal act to found a claim.

Question 5

A judge disagrees with a precedent set by a court of equal standing. What technique can she legitimately use to avoid following it?

Accepted Answer

Distinguishing

Answer

Distinguishing allows a judge to show the material facts differ enough that the precedent does not apply.

LNAT Practice Test

LNAT Practice Test

LNAT Legal Reasoning 2