Unlocking Torts

Tort law is a core element of every law degree in England and Wales, and this book provides a detailed and straightforward explanation of the main concepts. It is fully up to date with key case law and includes diagrams, cases, and materials exercises to aid learning. The Unlocking the Law series is designed to make the law accessible, with each chapter opening with a list of aims and objectives and containing diagrams to aid learning.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 552 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Tort law is a fundamental component of law degrees in England and Wales, and understanding it is essential for legal professionals. Tort law encompasses a wide range of legal principles and theories related to civil wrongs and the legal remedies available to individuals who have suffered harm or injury as a result of someone else's actions. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key aspects of tort law, including negligence, negligence-related torts, land-based torts, trespass to the person, defamation, economic torts, breach of statutory duty, vicarious liability, and defenses and remedies.

Negligence is a fundamental concept in tort law and refers to the failure of a person to exercise reasonable care in their actions or omissions, which results in harm or injury to another person. Negligence-related torts include occupiers' liability and employers' liability, where businesses or landowners are held responsible for the actions of their employees or agents. Occupiers' liability, for example, applies when a business owner or manager fails to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of visitors or customers on their premises. Employers' liability, on the other hand, arises when an employer fails to provide a safe working environment for their employees and fails to take reasonable precautions to prevent accidents or injuries.

Land-based torts, such as trespass, nuisance, and Rylands v Fletcher, involve the invasion of another person's property or the interference with their rights. Trespass refers to the unauthorized entry onto another person's land, while nuisance involves the unreasonable use of another person's property. Rylands v Fletcher, a landmark case in tort law, established that a landowner is liable for any harm caused by a dangerous substance that escapes from their property, even if the harm is not intentional.

Trespass to the person involves the physical invasion of another person's body or personal space, which can result in physical harm or injury. Defamation, on the other hand, involves the spreading of false or malicious information about another person, which can damage their reputation and cause emotional distress. Economic torts, such as breach of a statutory duty, vicarious liability, and defences and remedies, involve economic losses or damages caused by another person's actions. Breach of a statutory duty refers to the failure of a person to comply with a legal obligation, which can result in legal consequences. Vicarious liability, on the other hand, allows a person to be held responsible for the actions of their employees or agents, even if they were not directly involved in the wrongdoing. Defenses and remedies in tort law include various legal strategies used by defendants to defend themselves against claims or to seek compensation for their losses. These defenses may include contributory negligence, assumption of risk, and the doctrine of strict liability.

The fifth edition of this book is fully up to date with key case law, including recent decisions such as Robinson v Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police [2018] UKSC and Darnley v Croydon Health Services NHS Trust [2018] UKSC 50. These cases have significant implications for tort law and provide valuable insights into how the law is applied in practice.

The Unlocking the Law series is designed specifically to make the law accessible to students and legal professionals alike. Each chapter opens with a list of aims and objectives, diagrams to aid learning, cases and judgments prominently displayed, primary source quotations, summaries to check understanding, a glossary of legal terminology, and problem questions with guidance on answering. New features in this edition include essay questions and answer plans, cases and materials exercises, and a companion website with additional resources and study aids.

The series covers all the core subjects required by the Bar Council and the Law Society for entry onto professional qualifications, as well as popular option units. This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation in tort law and is an essential resource for anyone studying law or working in the legal profession. By understanding the principles and theories of tort law, legal professionals can effectively represent their clients, advocate for their rights, and contribute to the development of the law.

In conclusion, tort law is a critical component of law degrees in England and Wales, and understanding it is essential for legal professionals. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed and accessible introduction to the key aspects of tort law, including negligence, negligence-related torts, land-based torts, trespass to the person, defamation, economic torts, breach of statutory duty, vicarious liability, and defenses and remedies. By following the principles and theories outlined in this guide, legal professionals can effectively represent their clients, advocate for their rights, and contribute to the development of the law.

Weight: 1058g
Dimension: 246 x 189 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138036505
Edition number: 5 New edition