AQA A Level Law - Model answer on the Judiciary

This answer consists of 2 pages and is a “model answer” written by an experienced Law Examiner.

This document is a model answer for AQA A Level Law, focusing on the judiciary. It addresses three main questions:

• Training of Judges: Judges are trained by the Judicial Studies Board, with most training aimed at recorders, who are part-time judges. The training includes a one-week course and shadowing an experienced judge. There are criticisms regarding the short duration and lack of practical skills training.
• Work of Judges: The work varies depending on the level of the court. Justices of the Supreme Court handle appeal cases, Lords Justices of Appeal deal with applications for appeal, High Court Judges try cases and explain the law to the jury, and inferior judges in County Courts decide civil cases and try criminal cases.
• Importance of Judicial Independence: Judicial independence is crucial to protect citizens from government abuse of power. Judges must be independent from the legislature, executive, and political bias. They have financial independence and immunity from being sued for their judicial action.