When considering all aspects of the UK’s judicial system, it is important to understand the term Queen’s Bench. This term may appear odd or archaic, but it remains an important part of the country’s legal landscape. Here, business professionals can find all the background information they need to get a better understanding of Queen’s Bench and the role it plays in the legal system.
What Is Queen’s Bench?
The Queen’s Bench is the name historically given to the superior court in England and Wales, which has jurisdiction over criminal and civil matters. In more recent years, this court is now known as the High Court of Justice. The Queen’s Bench works closely with the Crown Court for criminal cases and the Chancery Division, Queen’s Bench Division, and Family Division for civil cases.
Queen’s Bench’s Role in the Judicial System
The Queen’s Bench plays a role as both an appellate court and as a court of original jurisdiction in criminal and civil cases. Cases brought before the Queen’s Bench typically involve matters such as libel and slander, fraud, and appeals from lower courts where the decision must be reviewed. The Queen’s Bench also has jurisdiction over matters such as the administration of trust funds and judicial review of government practices.
Contemporary Examples of Queen’s Bench Cases
Today, the Queen’s Bench continues to be a vital part of the UK’s judicial system. A few recent cases that have gone before the Queen’s Bench include:
- An appeal against the conviction of an environmental activist for criminal damage to a gas exploration site
- An appeal of a complaint against a local authority for the unlawful use of the applicant’s land
- A challenge against a decision by the Home Office that a refugee cannot permanently stay in the UK
- A claim of negligence, misrepresentation, and breach of contract brought against a financial services provider
Conclusion
As this guide has shown, the Queen’s Bench is an important court within the UK’s judicial system. Although the High Court of Justice has now been fully established to take the place of the Queen’s Bench, it is still important to understand the original court and its role in UK legal affairs. With the examples of recent cases, you have been given context for the Queen’s Bench’s modern influence.