Author: Contend Legal
Understanding Crown Court Trials, Sentencing and Appeals
Introduction to the Crown Court The Crown Court is a key part of the criminal justice system in England and Wales, responsible for handling the most serious criminal cases. Unlike the Magistrates’ Court, which deals mainly with less serious offences, the Crown Court hears cases that require a higher level of authority due to their…
Understanding Bail and Release Conditions in UK Law
What is Bail? Bail is a legal process that allows someone accused of a crime to be released from custody while they wait for their trial or a court hearing. Instead of remaining in police or court cells, the individual can go home, but they may need to follow certain rules set by the court…
Criminal Cases in the UK: Legal Overview
Introduction to Criminal Cases Criminal cases in the UK involve situations where someone is accused of breaking the law, such as theft, assault, or more serious offences. In these cases, the state prosecutes the accused person to determine if they are guilty and, if so, what their punishment should be. The main purpose of the…
How the Small Claims Court Works for Disputes Under £10,000
What is the Small Claims Court? The Small Claims Court is a part of the UK civil court system designed to resolve straightforward legal disputes quickly and affordably. It provides a way for individuals and businesses to settle disagreements without the need for lengthy or expensive legal proceedings. The main purpose of the Small Claims…
Personal Injury Law in the UK: An Overview
Introduction to Personal Injury and Accidents Personal injury claims are legal actions you can take if you have suffered physical or psychological harm because of someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions. These claims often arise after accidents at work, on the road, or in public places, but can also cover situations like emotional distress or…
Understanding Negligence and Torts: Your Rights Explained
What Is Negligence? Negligence is a legal term used to describe a situation where someone fails to take reasonable care, resulting in harm or loss to another person. Under UK law, negligence is a type of tort – a civil wrong that allows the injured party to seek compensation through the courts. While criminal law…
Defamation, Libel and Slander: Your Rights Explained
What is Defamation? Defamation is the act of making a false statement about someone that damages their reputation. In the UK, defamation is considered a civil wrong, meaning it is handled through the civil courts rather than being treated as a criminal offence. The purpose of defamation law is to protect individuals and businesses from…
How to Resolve Contract and Consumer Disputes in the UK
Understanding Contracts and Consumer Disputes A contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties. In the UK, contract law requires that certain basic elements are present for a contract to be valid: an offer, acceptance, consideration (something of value exchanged), an intention to create legal relations, and clear terms. Contracts can be…
How to Make a Legal Claim Against a Public Body in the UK
Introduction to Claims Against Government and Public Bodies When you believe a government department or public body has caused you harm or treated you unfairly, you may have the right to make a legal claim. Public bodies are organisations that carry out government functions or provide public services. These include central government departments, local councils,…
Civil Court Case Types and Timelines Explained Simply
Introduction to Civil Courts in the UK Civil courts in the UK play a crucial role in resolving disputes between individuals, businesses, or organisations that do not involve criminal allegations. These courts are designed to provide a fair and impartial forum for parties to settle issues such as contract disagreements, property disputes, personal injury claims,…
