Since the publication of its first edition, this textbook has become the definitive student introduction to the subject. As with earlier editions, the seventh edition gives a clear understanding of fundamental legal concepts and their importance within society. In addition, this book addresses the ways in which rules and the structures of law respond to and impact upon changes in economic and political life. The title has been extensively updated and explores recent high profile developments such as the Civil Partnership Act 2005 and the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill. This introductory text covers a wide range of topics in a clear, sensible fashion giving full context to each. For this reason An Introduction to Law is ideal for all students of law, be they undergraduate law students, those studying law as part of a mixed degree, or students on social sciences courses which offer law options.

• New edition of one of the leading student introductions to this subject, comprehensively updating previous editions • Summaries within chapters reinforce students’ understanding • Takes both a contextualised and interdisciplinary approach to give broadest perspective on the subject

Contents

1. Law and society; 2. Law and morality; 3. Law and the regulation of economic activity; 4. Some important legal concepts; 5. Law and property; 6. Law and settlement; 7. The making of legal rules; 8. The European dimension of English law; 9. Liability in English law: the law of tort; 10. Liability in English law: crime and criminal justice system; 11. Development and the role of contract; 12. Law and government; 13. The legal profession; 14. The judges.