Study topic
Crime and the justice system
The test covers how the courts decide cases and the principle that judges are independent of government.
Key facts to remember
- ◆ Less serious cases in England and Wales are heard by magistrates.
- ◆ Serious criminal cases are tried by a jury in the Crown Court.
- ◆ A jury in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has 12 members.
- ◆ Judges are independent of the government and of Parliament.
- ◆ People are presumed innocent until proven guilty.