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History of English Law

A Comprehensive Summary

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Based on 11 ratings
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Shaveen Bandaranayake

History of English Law: A Comprehensive Summary

Whether you are a new student in Law or someone who is fascinated by the English Legal System and its historic roots, "The Law Simplified" course on the History of English Law will give you a comprehensive summary of the subject. 

Many students who study the Law, find it difficult to connect all of the pieces together. Thus, this course will give you a "bird's eye" overview of the entire subject.

Read more

History of English Law: A Comprehensive Summary

Whether you are a new student in Law or someone who is fascinated by the English Legal System and its historic roots, "The Law Simplified" course on the History of English Law will give you a comprehensive summary of the subject. 

Many students who study the Law, find it difficult to connect all of the pieces together. Thus, this course will give you a "bird's eye" overview of the entire subject.

The History of English Law provides a great primer for students enrolled in any Law Degree based on English Law. It provides context for why certain aspects of Public Law and the Legal System in general have been 'shaped' in the way it has.

This course has been adapted to suit the needs of Law students worldwide.  

Remember, this is not a substitute for thorough learning, but it will be a great resource for students who want to recap the entire syllabus and for those who want a better, clearer and more concise understanding of the principles - or simply anyone who's interested in learning the History of English Law.

Features:

- Digestible chunks of knowledge: everything you need to know on each topic, simplified 

- Downloadable Slide Deck, that will give you the bigger picture of the subject and assist you in following the course

- Q&A via the platform to guide you on historical aspects of the English Law and its Legal System

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will learn the important historical overtures of the english law and its legal system
  • An appreciation of the evolution of the english legal system
  • Understand the relevance of modern constitutional law through a historical perspective
  • Develop techniques to enrich your answers to examination questions

Syllabus

Welcome to The Law Simplified course on the History of English Law! Here's what to expect from this course.

Welcome to The Law Simplified!

The History of the English Law is a fascinating subject which discusses not only the origins of the English Law but also how its procedure has evolved over time. This course aims to provide you with a overview of that history and procedure and 'peak' your interest in further learning as well.

Read more

Course Outline

This video breaks down the main topics that will be covered in this course

The Anglo Saxon Legal System

In this lesson, we will begin by discussing the historic and at times barbaric origins of the UKs legal system. From the feudal infrastructure to proof by ordeals, the Anglo Saxon Legal System is at times a subject on to itself!

Introduction to the Courts of the Common Law & Exchequer

We begin our discussion into the Courts of the Common Law by identifying the centralized nature of it, specifically with reference to the King's Council and its respective hierarchy.

Court of Common Pleas

In this lesson, we will continue our discussion on the different Courts which made up the King's Council, beginning with the Court of Common Pleas.

King's Bench

The King's Bench dealt primarily with any breach of the 'King's Peace' and as such dealt with Criminal matters. In this lesson, we will dive deeper into how it manifestly enriched the King's Council and more broadly, the Courts of the Common Law.

Eyre System

The Eyre System or Itinerant Justices were a means of dispensing the King's justice throughout the realm. In this lesson, we will analyze how it shaped the concept of 'Attorney' and how the Eyre System can be considered as the inception of the legal practice as we know it today.

Court of Chancery

One of the most interesting aspects of the Courts of the Common Law stems from its early division of equitable principles. The Court of Chancery played a pivotal role in its development and in this lesson, we begin by identifying its role and its development.

Court of Chancery: Part II

We continue and conclude our lesson on the Court of Chancery by assessing the reforms which have take place over the years.

Appeals: Introduction

The concept of appeal was initially unheard of in UK, primarily due decisions being considered 'divine' and thus human error being untenable. In this lesson, we will begin by addressing this fact before proceeding to discuss the topic holistically.

Appeals: Development

In this lesson, we continue to discuss the process of Appeal and how it development over time in the UK.

Appeals: Writs and Reform

The Writ instrument is one which invokes a number of orders and has been through the ages a means of addressing unfairness. In this lesson, we conclude our discussion on Appeals by outlining the various types of Prerogative Writs and the reforms that took place therein.

Congratulations on completing The Law Simplified course on the History of English Law!

If you are interested in further learning and taking your 'Pass' to an 'Ace', watch this video and see how other students have benefited from the Tutoring Masterclass Programme

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a foundational understanding of the English Legal System, which is beneficial for students pursuing law degrees or legal careers
Offers a 'bird's eye' view of the subject, which helps learners connect the pieces of the English Legal System together
Explores the Anglo-Saxon legal system, which provides insight into the historic and sometimes barbaric origins of the UK's legal system
Examines the Eyre System, which shaped the concept of 'Attorney' and can be considered the inception of legal practice as it is known today
Discusses the Court of Chancery and its role in the early division of equitable principles, which is a key aspect of the Courts of Common Law
Addresses the concept of appeals and its development over time in the UK, which is important for understanding legal procedure

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive history of english law summary

According to learners, this course offers a useful comprehensive summary providing a bird's eye overview of the history of English Law. Students found it particularly helpful as a primer for their law degrees or for connecting disparate concepts. The course is praised for breaking down the subject into digestible chunks and for the clear explanations provided by the instructor. While it serves its purpose well as an overview, some reviewers note it is not a substitute for in-depth study and may be too basic for those with prior extensive knowledge of the subject.
Some topics covered very quickly.
"Most lessons are paced well, but some areas felt a bit rushed."
"I had to pause and rewatch a few times when particularly complex ideas were covered rapidly."
"While digestible, some chunks could benefit from slightly more elaboration."
Slide deck aids understanding and review.
"The downloadable slide deck is a fantastic resource for following along and reviewing later."
"Having the slides helps visualize the timeline and key points discussed in the videos."
"The supplementary materials added significant value to the learning experience."
Ideal for those new to law or needing context.
"Perfect for law students who need to understand the historical roots of the system."
"If you're just starting out or need a recap, this course is invaluable."
"It really helped me understand why certain aspects of modern law developed the way they did."
Instructor's delivery and content are very clear.
"The instructor is fantastic and explains complex topics clearly and concisely."
"Lessons are broken down into digestible chunks, making it easy to follow."
"I appreciated how the historical evolution was explained in a logical, easy-to-understand way."
Provides a clear, high-level view of the subject.
"This course gives you a great 'bird's eye view' of the history of English law."
"It provides a comprehensive summary that really helps connect the pieces."
"As a new law student, this was the perfect primer to get a grasp of the historical context before diving deeper."
Serves as a summary, not a detailed replacement.
"Remember this is a summary, so it doesn't go into extreme detail on any single topic."
"Definitely not a substitute for reading textbooks or attending university lectures, but a great aid."
"Those looking for deep dives into specific periods might find it too brief."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in History of English Law: A Comprehensive Summary with these activities:
Review 'The Oxford History of the Laws of England'
Gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of English law by reviewing a comprehensive legal history text.
View English Law Under Two Elizabeths (The Hamlyn... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Select a volume or chapter relevant to the course syllabus.
  • Read the selected material, taking notes on key developments.
  • Summarize the main points and relate them to course content.
Review Key Figures in English Legal History
Solidify your understanding of the course material by reviewing the contributions of key figures in English legal history.
Browse courses on Legal History
Show steps
  • Identify key figures mentioned in the course materials.
  • Research their contributions to English law and legal system.
  • Create a timeline or summary of their achievements.
Create a Timeline of English Legal History
Reinforce your understanding of the chronological development of English law by creating a visual timeline.
Show steps
  • Identify major events and periods in English legal history.
  • Research the dates and significance of each event.
  • Create a visual timeline using online tools or software.
  • Add brief descriptions and images to each event.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss Court System Evolution with Peers
Deepen your understanding of the evolution of the English court system by discussing it with peers.
Show steps
  • Organize a virtual or in-person study group.
  • Prepare discussion points on the different courts.
  • Share insights and clarify any confusion.
Write a Blog Post on the Eyre System
Solidify your knowledge of the Eyre System by writing a blog post explaining its significance.
Show steps
  • Research the Eyre System and its historical context.
  • Outline the key features and functions of the system.
  • Write a blog post explaining the Eyre System in simple terms.
  • Publish the blog post on a personal blog or online platform.
Review 'Landmarks in English Legal History'
Expand your understanding of key milestones in English legal history by reviewing a classic text.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Landmarks in English Legal History'.
  • Read chapters relevant to the course syllabus.
  • Take notes on key landmarks and their significance.
Create a Presentation on the Court of Chancery
Deepen your understanding of the Court of Chancery by creating a presentation summarizing its history and significance.
Show steps
  • Research the history and function of the Court of Chancery.
  • Create a presentation outline with key topics.
  • Develop slides with concise information and visuals.
  • Practice delivering the presentation effectively.

Career center

Learners who complete History of English Law: A Comprehensive Summary will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
A historian researches, analyzes, and interprets the past, often specializing in a particular period or region. This History of English Law course directly aligns with the work of a historian, providing a comprehensive summary of the subject. The course's exploration of the Anglo Saxon legal system, courts of common law, and the evolution of appeals offers valuable insights into the development of English legal institutions. The course may help develop techniques to enrich your answers to examination questions. A historian specializing in legal history would find this course beneficial.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian
Law Clerk
A law clerk assists judges or lawyers with legal research, drafting legal documents, and analyzing case law. The History of English Law course provides a comprehensive overview of the English legal system's historical foundations, which may be very helpful for a law clerk. The course's insights into the evolution of the English legal system and its focus on understanding the relevance of modern constitutional law through a historical perspective may be particularly beneficial. The course may help develop techniques that enrich answers to examination questions. Anyone interested in becoming a law clerk may strongly benefit from this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Law Clerk
Paralegal
A paralegal provides essential support to lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, and organizing case files. This History of English Law course may provide a foundational understanding of the legal system's origins and evolution, which is incredibly helpful for a paralegal. Knowing how the English legal system developed provides a relevant context for understanding contemporary legal practices and procedures. The course's focus on the historical aspects of public law and the legal system in general may be particularly useful. Anyone interested in becoming a paralegal may benefit from this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Paralegal
Legal Assistant
A legal assistant provides administrative and clerical support to lawyers, including managing files, scheduling appointments, and communicating with clients. The History of English Law course offers insights into the historical overtures of the English law and its legal system, which may be helpful for a legal assistant. Understanding the evolution of the English legal system provides context for the daily tasks and procedures encountered in a law office. The course's overview of the entire subject and the downloadable slide deck may be especially useful for those new to the field. A prospective legal assistant may find this course quite helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Legal Assistant
Archivist
An archivist appraises, collects, organizes, preserves, and makes accessible historical records and documents. The History of English Law course provides context for understanding the significance of legal documents and records, which is helpful for an archivist specializing in legal collections. The course's insights into the Anglo Saxon legal system, courts of common law, and the evolution of legal procedures may be useful for assessing and preserving legal archives. The downloadable slide deck and Q&A feature may further enhance the knowledge and skills of an archivist. A prospective archivist may find this course helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist
Compliance Officer
A compliance officer ensures that an organization adheres to legal standards and internal policies. The History of English Law course may provide a valuable historical context for understanding the development of legal principles and regulations, which is highly relevant for a compliance officer. Knowing how laws and legal systems have evolved can help compliance officers better interpret and apply current regulations. The course's emphasis on understanding the relevance of modern constitutional law through a historical perspective may be particularly beneficial. An aspiring compliance officer may benefit from this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Officer
Legal Secretary
A legal secretary provides administrative support in a law office, including preparing legal documents, managing correspondence, and maintaining files. The History of English Law course provides a historical perspective on the English legal system, which may be beneficial for a legal secretary. Familiarity with the origins and evolution of legal concepts may help a legal secretary better understand the documents and processes they handle daily. The course’s digestible chunks of knowledge and downloadable slide deck may be particularly useful. A prospective legal secretary may find this course helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Legal Secretary
Political Scientist
A political scientist studies the theory and practice of politics and government. The History of English Law course provides a historical perspective on the development of legal and political systems, which may be beneficial for a political scientist. Understanding the evolution of the English legal system and its relevance to modern constitutional law, as provided in this course, can inform research and analysis of contemporary political institutions. The course's discussion of the Anglo Saxon legal system and the development of appeals may be particularly relevant. A political scientist interested in legal history may find this course quite useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist
Legislative Assistant
A legislative assistant supports legislators by researching policy issues, drafting legislation, and monitoring legislative developments. This History of English Law course provides a solid foundation in the historical context of laws, which is essential for a legislative assistant. Understanding the evolution of the English legal system and the historical perspectives on modern constitutional law, as provided in this course, may enhance the ability to analyze and draft legislation effectively. The course's overview of the Anglo Saxon Legal System may be particularly interesting. Anyone interested in becoming a legislative assistant may find this course quite helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Legislative Assistant
Lobbyist
A lobbyist advocates for specific policies or legislation by engaging with policymakers and government officials. This History of English Law course provides a historical context for understanding the development of legal and political systems, which may be helpful for a lobbyist. Knowing the evolution of legal terminology and procedures may enable a lobbyist to advocate more effectively and strategically. The course's focus on the evolution of the English legal system and its relevance to modern constitutional law may be particularly beneficial. A lobbyist may find this course helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lobbyist
Court Reporter
A court reporter creates verbatim transcripts of legal proceedings, using specialized equipment to ensure accuracy. While this History of English Law course does not directly train on transcription skills, the course provides an understanding of the legal system's historical context, which may be useful for a court reporter. Knowing the evolution of legal terminology and procedures may enhance comprehension and accuracy when transcribing legal proceedings. The course's focus on the evolution of the Anglo Saxon legal system and the Courts of Common Law may be especially relevant. A prospective court reporter may find this course relevant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Court Reporter
Title Examiner
A title examiner reviews property records to determine ownership and legal encumbrances on real estate titles. The History of English Law course provides a historical context for understanding property law concepts, which may be useful for a title examiner. Knowing how property rights and legal systems have evolved can help title examiners better interpret historical records and identify potential issues. The course's focus on the evolution of the English legal system and its relevance to modern constitutional law may be particularly beneficial. While a career as a title examiner typically requires specific training in real estate law, this course may add depth to the candidate's understanding.
See salaries and explore the career path for Title Examiner
Political Campaign Staffer
A political campaign staffer works to promote candidates and political causes through various activities such as outreach and coordination. This History of English Law course provides relevant historical context to political systems and legal frameworks. Understanding the evolution of the English legal system and the historical perspectives on modern constitutional law, as provided in this course, may enhance the ability to craft positions and messaging. This course may thus be a boon to anyone seeking to improve their understanding of the origins of political systems. An aspiring political campaign staffer may find this course suitable for laying a strong foundation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Political Campaign Staffer
Arbitrator
An arbitrator is a neutral third party that resolves disputes outside of court, often in a private setting. While an arbitrator is often a lawyer, this course can help inform this profession as a way to understand the history of law and dispute resolution. An arbitrator may find this course helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Arbitrator
Mediator
A mediator is a neutral third party that helps facilitate resolution of disputes. While an mediator is often a lawyer, this course can help inform this profession as a way to understand the history of law and dispute resolution. An mediator may find this course helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mediator

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in History of English Law: A Comprehensive Summary.
Cover image
English Law Under Two Elizabeths
Save
This multi-volume series provides an in-depth and authoritative account of the development of English law from Roman times to the present day. It is an essential resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Given its depth, it is more valuable as a reference tool for advanced study.
English Law Under Two Elizabeths (The Hamlyn...
Paperback
$$
English Law Under Two Elizabeths: The Late Tudor...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Effort
1.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Shaveen Bandaranayake
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a foundational understanding of the English Legal System, which is beneficial for students pursuing law degrees or legal careers
Offers a 'bird's eye' view of the subject, which helps learners connect the pieces of the English Legal System together
Explores the Anglo-Saxon legal system, which provides insight into the historic and sometimes barbaric origins of the UK's legal system
Examines the Eyre System, which shaped the concept of 'Attorney' and can be considered the inception of legal practice as it is known today
Discusses the Court of Chancery and its role in the early division of equitable principles, which is a key aspect of the Courts of Common Law
Addresses the concept of appeals and its development over time in the UK, which is important for understanding legal procedure
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