15.1. Discussion Points.

What do you know about the Old Bailey? What happens there? Where do the important trials in your country take place? What have been the important trials in your country in recent years? Who were the important protagonists? What was the outcome?

The Old Bailey is the name of the Central Criminal Court in London, and has become the most famous courthouse in the world. It is where all the most important trails in the country take place. Daily trails include murder cases, manslaughter, rape, armed robbery and extortion. Oscar Wilde was tried and sentenced here in 1895. Dr. Crippen and the Yorkshire Ripper, two of Britain’s most notorious murderers, were brought to justice here too in 1910 and 1981 respectively. What many don’t realise is that there are eighteen courtrooms and each has a public gallery that is free to get in. Free yes! In London! That means no money! What better way to learn English than watching a real life murder trial! Bring proof of identity, and leave any recording equipment and artist's materials at home. Security is very strict. (Incidentally, another free day out would be the House of Common’s public gallery. The opening times are 14.30 to 22.30 Monday to Wednesday, 11.30 to 17.30 on Thursday, and Friday 09.30 to 15.00. Wednesday is ‘Prime Minister’s Question time,’ and is busy. Entry here is more difficult than to the Old Bailey due to the small size of the gallery. Foreigners can obtain special passes from their embassies beforehand that guarantee entry. Alternatively you can go to the St. Stephen’s entrance several hours before and hope there are not too many people.)

How would you describe the legal system in your country? How do you think it compares with the American or British system? Do you think it is possible to buy justice? The British legal system is constantly being criticised for being old-fashioned, snobby, slow and presided over by old men who have no contact with reality. Well yeah, it is a bit. Then there’s the police force too. They get a lot of criticism too. But what really matters is how they compares to yours; in many countries most people don’t even have the chance of receiving justice. Britain’s legal aid service at least means that the underprivileged can have a legal say. America’s legal system is constantly under fire too. Several court cases in its recent history have highlighted the importance of having good financial backing to win your case. The idea of getting money from someone else (suing) by taking them to court raises serious questions too.  Discuss them with your classmates.