Includes bibliographical references (p. [347]) and index.

Introduction : the royal courts of justice -- The law and its importance -- The invisible palace : part 1, 'judge-made' law : common law and equity -- The invisible palace : part 2, the Constitution -- The Palace of Westminster : our chief law makers : parliament -- Our chief law enforcers : the police -- Our law upholders : the judiciary -- The legal profession -- Solicitors -- Barristers -- The work of the courts : part 1, the courts -- The work of the courts : part 2, criminal and civil cases -- Judges -- Legal robes -- Criminal trials through the ages -- Punishments through the ages -- Criminal trials today -- Punishments today -- Human rights -- Discrimination and the law -- Young persons -- Dangerous drugs -- Animals -- Laws around the world -- Some interesting cases.