How does the justice system work in the UK?
I can explain what justice means and how justice is carried out in the UK.
How does the justice system work in the UK?
I can explain what justice means and how justice is carried out in the UK.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The UK justice system is based on the rule of law, which ensures fairness and equality for all.
- Justice includes access to legal advice, fair trials and support for both the victims and the accused.
- Sentences like prison, community orders and fines are used depending on the severity of the crime.
- These sentences aim to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders and deter future crime.
- Legal professionals help make sure the correct processes are followed and that everyone’s rights are respected.
Keywords
Justice - fairness as a result of the application of the law, usually by a judge, in society
Rule of law - the principle that all individuals within a state, including government and leaders, are subject to the same laws and must follow them; it ensures fairness, justice and accountability in society
Sentencing - the process of giving a punishment to a person found guilty in a court case
Common misconception
Justice is only about punishing criminals.
Justice is about punishing criminals but it is also about fairness, access to legal help and protecting the rights of all people, including victims and the accused.
To help you plan your year 11 citizenship lesson on: How does the justice system work in the UK?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 citizenship lesson on: How does the justice system work in the UK?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 citizenship lessons from the Practising what we have learnt unit, dive into the full secondary citizenship curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
- Depiction or discussion of sexual violence
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
for their safety.
such as better jobs.
to study and learn.
as a family.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
fairness as a result of the application of the law in society
the principle that all individuals are subject to the same laws
the process of giving a punishment to a person found guilty in court