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The Law Machine
The authors explain and discuss how the justice system evolved, the way it operates - including vivid descriptions of the trial process - and how lawyers work. Revised and updated throughout for this fifth edition, THE LAW MACHINE surveys recent developments in the workings of justice and the outlook for the future. 'Refreshingly free of the patronizing attitude and the humbug with which other books about the legal system are riddled' - THES
- GenresLawNonfictionLegal
224 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 1986
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 19, 2013
This is a really good, accessible guide to the institutions and processes of british law. I read it to prepare for jury service later in the year and I would have given it 5 stars but it's quite out of date. A lot of paragraphs mention reforms and reviews due to come into effect in the early 2000s.
April 22, 2022
At times, this book was quite trying to read. It was engaging, definitely, I found myself racing for the next page to find out more about the Queen’s Court, difference between barristers and solicitors and how a case actually reaches the justice system. The most engaging part was when an example was used.
It was difficult for me to finish a page, let alone a chapter because it was mostly very factual without sustenance, without a real life example which was what I had been looking for. Then, about 5 or 6 chapters in (unsure how many really, but around that number) I read about an accidents injury case.
This had characters, backstory, options and the justice system explained that I was able to near the end of the book quite quickly. Though engaging, thorough and fun to read, it was quite outdated, talking about reforms of the 1900s. I suppose that’s my fault for not taking note of its publication date.
However, I would love to read a more modern take on the justice system. One with more examples than explanations, I’d hope.
It was difficult for me to finish a page, let alone a chapter because it was mostly very factual without sustenance, without a real life example which was what I had been looking for. Then, about 5 or 6 chapters in (unsure how many really, but around that number) I read about an accidents injury case.
This had characters, backstory, options and the justice system explained that I was able to near the end of the book quite quickly. Though engaging, thorough and fun to read, it was quite outdated, talking about reforms of the 1900s. I suppose that’s my fault for not taking note of its publication date.
However, I would love to read a more modern take on the justice system. One with more examples than explanations, I’d hope.
April 20, 2022
The Law Machine is a short work of non fiction that aims to describe the manner in which the English(ish) legal system works. When I say English, it's as the text says it's advice mainly pertains to the English and Welsh system with occasional asides to the Scottish system.
III I opted to skip the chapter on divorce due to the likely large changes made to divorce law since 1994 not limited to but including the recent introduction of 'no fault divorce'. I am baffled as to how the legal system took so long to introduce no fault divorce but I'm no expert on these matters.
I would say that this text is generally useful reading for anyone who lives in the UK and especially for anyone who is about to go through a potential civil or criminal trial. I would caution that this book whilst readable isn't as fascinating as some law books for the lay person might be. It is not a discussion of novel law cases and what they entailed. It is also not a discussion of the morals and ethics of laws and justice. Not a philosophical text.
It serves to describe so that one can understand the legal system in England(ish). I would say it does an admirable job of that and I read it in maybe 3 hours or less so it's quite an easy to take in read. I would hope that a more modern version of such book existed but the law is ever evolving. I think I also could have appreciated a greater discussion as to why we have such a legal system and why such choices made are suitable for the system and for the individuals using it however that is not the purpose of this text.
III I opted to skip the chapter on divorce due to the likely large changes made to divorce law since 1994 not limited to but including the recent introduction of 'no fault divorce'. I am baffled as to how the legal system took so long to introduce no fault divorce but I'm no expert on these matters.
I would say that this text is generally useful reading for anyone who lives in the UK and especially for anyone who is about to go through a potential civil or criminal trial. I would caution that this book whilst readable isn't as fascinating as some law books for the lay person might be. It is not a discussion of novel law cases and what they entailed. It is also not a discussion of the morals and ethics of laws and justice. Not a philosophical text.
It serves to describe so that one can understand the legal system in England(ish). I would say it does an admirable job of that and I read it in maybe 3 hours or less so it's quite an easy to take in read. I would hope that a more modern version of such book existed but the law is ever evolving. I think I also could have appreciated a greater discussion as to why we have such a legal system and why such choices made are suitable for the system and for the individuals using it however that is not the purpose of this text.
April 8, 2024
Outdated about the practical side of it but alot of the ideas and theories still apply!!
The way it talks through the criminal and civil processes is very insightful and clear, explains the basics of the legal system (take everything with a grain of salt tho cause alot of the organisations it mentions no longer exist so i had to double check everything)
solicitor and barrister fees r disgusting
The way it talks through the criminal and civil processes is very insightful and clear, explains the basics of the legal system (take everything with a grain of salt tho cause alot of the organisations it mentions no longer exist so i had to double check everything)
solicitor and barrister fees r disgusting
September 9, 2025
Outdated now in several contexts but the legal principles still stand very well! The writing is very approachable and engaging to a beginner in the field. Loved the initial chapters and the civil process but this also is a reflection of my personal interests. Overall good little introductory book!
July 25, 2023
Great book, but a little outdated. Great for those who want to learn the history of law. As a fellow college student, I can confidently say that "The Law Machine" is an excellent book that I came across during my first year. Whenever I face complex topics in my studies, I rely on https://edubirdie.com/law-essay-writi... service for valuable assistance. This platform has been a lifesaver, not just for law students like me, but for many others too. This book was recommended by my insightful professor, and it truly enlightened me on the intricacies of the evolution of laws in our country. The book answered many questions I had about the legal system. Such literature is undeniably vital in shaping our education positively. Highly recommended!
July 28, 2008
A very no-nonsense account of the key aspects of the English legal system. The only complaint would be that it is starting to get a little dated. There have been a number of key reforms implemented since the writing and other brand new ones passed, and of course those aren't covered. Still a very clear and concise summary that is just right for anyone wanting a good starting point for later studies - just maybe wait for the next version.
July 10, 2014
This book is great for people who want to study law and haven't done a qualification in it before uni. It lays the groundwork for all the ideas you should have a grasp of so you don't feel too behind. I felt it was really useful and my edition was reasonably current but I know it's updated regularly so it's kept up to date.
November 15, 2015
A very good read but it was published in 2000, so it's a little out of date - bear that in mind.
Good for law students who have already finished their tort and criminal law modules to spot the differences, but reading it before you take them may be a little confusing.
Good for law students who have already finished their tort and criminal law modules to spot the differences, but reading it before you take them may be a little confusing.
December 21, 2020
Slightly outdated but a very informative read nonetheless. Wish there was an updated version.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews