An appreciation by Phillip Taylor of Richmond Green MBE Chambers
Do you remember what was described as that old chestnut , the ' guide , philosopher and friend ' called ' Learning the Law 'from the 1960s ? I. do ... and I am happy to say that the Cambridge Professor, ATH Smith, has produced the very best effort for a new edition after an absence of 20 years. It is rightly described as essential reading for all potential lawyers , Whether sixth -form students or graduates contemplating the study of law, or those considering career options. Whenever you are asked - what is the best book to start on if you want to know a bit about the English legal system?
The answer will be " Glanville Williams: Learning the Law ". Much of the original text survives but Professor Smith has given much needed emphasis to the new legal agenda of the early twenty -first century - gone are the old, archaic references - and in come new, thrusting European Union law provisions which will warm the heart of the most die-hard Eurosceptic .
I like chapter 14 the best - it is entitled ' General Reading '. It gives the best bibliography available for the range of works on the market for those who love the subject of law as much as some of the writers quoted clearly did. To read ' Learning the Law 'is an unforgettable experience. Thank you, Professor Smith, for bridging the twenty -year gap.
