Legal System and Legal Profession

Legal System and Legal Profession

The legal system of England & Wales is different from that of Scotland or Northern Ireland. Each has its own court system and body of laws. English law is derived from English common law with a heavy influence of medieval Germanic sources. Scottish common law is derived from Roman law roots but has, over the past few centuries, developed many affinities with the English common law.
The traditional barrister/solicitor distinction is present throughout the United Kingdom although in Scotland, a "barrister" is called an "advocate". In general, barristers alone can plead before the most senior courts, whereas only solicitors can meet with clients and provide direct legal advice. The Law Society of England and Wales certifies solicitors for England and for Wales. Scotland and Norther Ireland have their own professional bodies. Qualifications are restricted to the jurisdiction of call.