ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the institutional landscape for the legal system in England and Wales. The proper composition and role of the House of Lords within the English Legal System have been the subject of fierce debate for decades. Executive power within the legal system of England and Wales is exercised by a number of different individuals and public bodies. The Monarch is the original source of executive power in the English Legal System. The office of Prime Minister is one of the four Great Offices of State and the person occupying that position is a very visible and important part of the legal system as the head of government. The Government has a particularly prominent role in law-making within the legal system of England and Wales. The legal system of England and Wales exhibits the features of both of the models and adopts a mixed approach to the question of separation of powers.