Ignorance of the law is no defence

Ignorance of the law is no defence

11 September 2019

Justice Week 2020 to focus on educating people about their legal rights

Improving people’s knowledge of the justice system in England and Wales will be at the heart of next year’s “Justice Week”, which will run from 24 February 2020.

The three main legal professional bodies – the Bar Council, the Law Society of England and Wales, and the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) – will use the week to encourage public discussion about the legal rights and obligations of citizens.  

Between now and 24 February 2020, legal professionals and third sector organisations, are invited to make contact with the Bar Council, the Law Society of England and Wales or CILEx with proposals for initiatives to strengthen the public’s understanding of the justice system. 

Justice and the rule of law are critical foundations of our society, which shape so many aspects of people’s lives. A basic understanding of how the law works and the role of justice in society, politics and business is essential. People should know their rights, how they can enforce them and what measures are in place to protect them. Justice Week 2020 will provide a platform to debate how we ensure this legal education takes place.

Justice Week launched in October 2018 to raise awareness amongst the public of the importance and role of justice and the rule of law.

 

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Press contacts: 

Steve Rudaini, Director of External Relations & Communication, Bar Council – 020 7611 1429

Sharon Bruty MRIP, Communications Team, CILEx – 01234 845721 

Harriet Beaumont, Press Officer, The Law Society – 0208 049 3854