Judiciary DEFINITIONS

1. Supreme Court

The highest UK court; hears final appeals on important constitutional or legal matters.

2. Separation of Powers

The principle that the executive, legislature, and judiciary should be independent to prevent abuse of power.

3. Executive

The branch of government responsible for implementing laws and running the country (e.g. PM, Cabinet).

4. Legislation

Laws made by Parliament; interpreted and applied by the judiciary.

5. Judiciary

Judges and courts responsible for interpreting and applying the law independently.

6. Judicial Independence

Judges must be free from political pressure or interference when making decisions.

7. Judicial Impartiality

Judges must treat all cases fairly and without personal or political bias.

8. Politicisation

When judges are seen as politically biased or involved in political controversies.

9. Judicial Review

Courts assess whether the actions of public bodies or ministers are lawful.

10. Ultra Vires

Latin for “beyond the powers” – when a public body acts outside its legal authority.

11. Derogation

When the government legally suspends certain rights (e.g. during emergencies) under the Human Rights Act.

12. Quasi-Legislative

When the judiciary effectively shapes law through interpretation, especially in common law or human rights cases.

13. Rule of Law

The idea that everyone, including the government, is subject to the law.

14. Human Rights Act (1998)

Allows UK courts to hear cases on breaches of the European Convention on Human Rights.

15. European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)

International treaty that protects fundamental rights – UK courts interpret it under the HRA.

16. Declarations of Incompatibility

When the Supreme Court finds a UK law conflicts with the HRA – Parliament decides whether to amend it.

17. Security of Tenure

Judges cannot be easily removed from office – helps protect independence.

18. Judicial Appointments Commission

Independent body that selects judges based on merit – prevents political interference.

19. Public Law

The area of law covering the relationship between individuals and the state (e.g. judicial review cases).

20. Common Law

Law made by judges through past decisions, not written by Parliame