For Archie – Courts as Lawmakers.

Dear All,

Archie recently asked me how to tackle an 8 mark questions. The particular question was Evaluate two weaknesses and two strengths of law making through the courts.

Here are some general tips and ideas for this sort of question.

Include a brief introduction where you state the two big weaknesses and two main strengths.

Id then do four paragraphs.

One each for the weaknesses and one for the strengths.

Start with the first weakness….. rigidity for example. Then counter it with a strength of rigidity and finish off with a weakness. This way you evaluate as you are looking at the for and against of the particular weakness.

Then do the second, ie. Judges are not elected. A linking word such as furthermore or likewise is crucial. Again follow the pattern of weakness, strength of it ie. impartial and not pressured by constituents, and another aspect of the failings of that weakness.

Then say however, or in contrast and do the two strengths. Such as allows them to appropriately apply the law to the case at hand, or novel/trial cases.

I hope this can help you all in some way or form. If there are any questions you have about what I’ve said above or other questions leave a comment and ill get back to you.

Regards,
JB