Truth, myth or mixture?
Introduction
This free course explores the criminal law and courts of England and Wales and shows that some common ideas about them may not be entirely true! It examines those ideas and reveals the realities behind them.
The criminal justice system appears in news, documentaries, drama, and fiction. Many people also have direct contact with it, whether through their work or as victims, suspects or witnesses. How accurately do those experiences reflect the system as a whole? How realistic are the impressions given in the media or in fiction?
The different sections examine statements you may believe about the criminal law. They explore whether these common ideas about criminal justice are truths, myths or a mixture of both. They may change your mind about the criminal justice system – and should inspire you to learn more about the law. You will start by thinking about those involved in criminal court proceedings, and will look at juries in the first section.