1. The function of Law in society.

Law is, generally, a system of rules which are enforced through social institutions to govern behaviour and ensure a safe and peaceful society. In all times, law has been the glue that kept society together. Moreover, modern society cannot even exist without law because obedience for the law is the only way to organise system, which would work and live as one entity.

In fact, legal system is closely connected with all parts of our lives. Law and society are interwoven. All the activities, which we usually do are reflected in law.

It’s important to note that legal system should be based on Rule of Law. This legal doctrine states: no one is above the law, everybody is equal before the law. Rule of Law has several principles which served as the foundation for organisation of society. Firstly, no one should be punished in any other way than as prescribed by law. Secondly, arbitrariness is unacceptable, procedural and legal transparency should be ensured. Thirdly, all power shouldn’t be concentrated in one person or organisation because it would lead to legal inequality, it implies separation of powers. Rule of Law is the most important part of legal system.

Purposes of the law are varied, but the main one is to create conditions for the coexistence of people, which would be producing a development and cooperation. So, law aims to prevent arbitrariness and violence, to ensure awareness and implementation idea that all the people have rights and no one may be deprived of them.

2. Legal profession in the uk. Barristers and Solicitors.

The lawyer, in broad sense, is one whose principal activity is related to practice of law and advise clients on legal matters. The lawyers of different countries differ widely from one another, but all of them have higher legal education.

In most countries, the legal profession is not subdivided. Therefore, all lawyers have the same professional education leading to the same qualifications and are able to carry out all legal work. The same couldn’t be said about legal profession in the United Kingdom. The legal profession in England is divided into two branches: solicitors and barristers They usually do different types of legal work because they have different legal training.

Speaking of solicitors, they deal with a range of legal work: advising people on general legal issues, drafting legal documents, wills and contracts, resolving disputes between parties through arbitration or mediation, providing advocacy in lower courts.

The usual education required of a solicitor includes either a qualifying law degree or both a degree in a different suitable subject and a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), awarded by examination. Both are followed by a postgraduate Legal Practice and a Professional Skills Course.

Barristers specialise in arguing cases in front of a judge and have the right to be heard, the right of audience, even in the highest courts. So, barrister is a qualified legal professional who offers specialist advice whilst representing, advocating and defending its clients in court.

To qualify as a barrister you need to complete the vocational component of bar training after your LLB or law conversion course. After this, future barristers will do a 1year apprenticeship, which usually takes place in chambers. Apprenticeship involves shadowing a barrister before getting involved in the practical work of chambers.