FLK1 Flashcards
Are ECtHR decisions binding on UK courts under the HRA?
No, ECtHR decisions are not binding on UK courts, but Section 2(1) of the HRA requires courts to account for them when interpreting laws or reviewing decisions.
Note that while the ECtHR judgments are not binding on national courts, they are binding on national governments.
What happens if an ECtHR decision conflicts with UK domestic precedent?
UK courts must follow domestic binding precedent but may give leave to appeal. ECtHR decisions are binding on national governments, which must ensure domestic law aligns with ECtHR rulings if necessary
What must you ensure when referring a client to a third party under the SRA Principles?
Referrals must be in the client’s best interests, not compromise your independence (Principle 3), and comply with acting with integrity (Principle 5) and in the client’s best interests (Principle 7).
What are the key requirements under Part 5 of the SRA Code of Conduct regarding referrals?
You must fully inform the client of any financial or other interests in the referral, ensure the client can make an informed decision, and disclose any limitations, such as offering products from a single source.
When is VAT charged under the Value Added Tax Act 1994?
VAT is charged on the taxable supply of goods and services made in the course of a business (s. 4(1)), where goods or services are supplied for consideration and generate income on a continuing basis.
What did Wakefield College v HMRC (2018) clarify about “business” for VAT purposes?
There is no checklist or exhaustive definition of “business”; the intention of the supplier and the amount charged are irrelevant. Relevant factors include ongoing income generation and exchange for consideration.
What is the liability for damage caused by encroaching trees under nuisance law?
The owner is liable for reasonable costs to remedy damage caused by encroaching trees (Davey v Harrow Corporation, Delaware Mansions Ltd). Liability includes damage that their encroachment “materially contributed” to but may be reduced if the damage was exacerbated by defective construction (Loftus-Brigham v Ealing).
What are the tests for foreseeability and continuing nuisance for encroaching trees?
Foreseeability requires the owner to know or ought to know of the roots and risks (Leakey v National Trust). A nuisance “continues” if the owner fails to act with knowledge of its existence within a reasonable time (Sedleigh-Denfield v O’Callaghan). Liability can arise even if the nuisance predated ownership.
What happens if an expert’s report is not disclosed in accordance with Directions?
Under Rule 35.13 of the CPR, the report cannot be used at trial, nor can the expert give oral evidence unless the court grants permission. The court’s power to exclude evidence is discretionary.
Can the opposing party’s consent allow late reliance on an expert’s report or witness statement?
No, only the court can grant relief under Rules 32.10 and 35.13 of the CPR, even if the opposing party consents.
Whilst the court will have regard to the consent of the opposing party for your client to rely on a report that has been adduced out of time, the matter cannot be dealt with by consent as only the court can grant relief pursuant to rules 32.10 / 35.13 of the CPR.
What qualifies as a public assembly under the Public Order Act 1986?
Under s.16 of the Act, a public assembly must take place in the open air, at least in part. Indoor gatherings are not public assemblies. A public assembly must involve two or more people.
Does the purpose of a public assembly affect the power to impose conditions?
No, the purpose of the assembly is irrelevant to the power to impose conditions under the Public Order Act 1986.
What criminal offence is established under Section 14 of the Legal Services Act 2007?
It is a criminal offence for non-entitled persons to undertake advocacy activity as outlined in the Act.
What advocacy rights do solicitors have under the SRA Authorisation of Individuals Regulations?
Solicitors can conduct their own advocacy in tribunals, Coroners’ Courts, Magistrates’ Courts, County Courts, the Family Court, and European courts without additional qualifications.
What additional qualifications do solicitors need to represent clients in higher courts?
Solicitors must gain the Higher Courts (Civil Advocacy) or Higher Courts (Criminal Advocacy) Qualification to represent clients in the Crown Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court.
When will the court allow expert opinion evidence?
The court will allow expert opinion evidence if it relates to an issue outside the normal experience of the judge, not a jury.
A private company limited by shares is proposing to declare a final dividend. The company has adopted the model articles (unamended). What steps are required of the company in order to declare such a dividend?
The company must pass an ordinary resolution of its members in order to declare a final dividend (Model Article 30) and in order to do this, the company must produce its annual accounts to evidence it has profits available for this purpose.
Does the expert need to be the leading expert for their opinion to be admissible?
No, the expert does not need to be the leading expert, just a true expert on the matter. The court will decide if the opinion is correct.
Who is prima facie liable under the Consumer Protection Act 1987 for damage caused by a product?
The manufacturer, producer, importer, or “own brander” of the product is prima facie liable for any damage caused by the product under sections 2(1) and 2(2) of the Consumer Protection Act 1987.
What defines “damage” under section 5(1) of the Consumer Protection Act 1987?
“Damage” is defined as death, personal injury, or damage to any property under section 5(1) of the Consumer Protection Act 1987.
What must a solicitor do on the termination of a retainer?
On the termination of a retainer, a solicitor must deliver all papers and property to which the client is entitled or hold them to the client’s order, subject to any lien, and account for all client funds held.
What is the defence available to a manufacturer or supplier under the Consumer Protection Act 1987?
Under section 4(1)(d) of the 1987 Act, a defendant can assert that the defect did not exist in the product at the relevant time, but the burden of proof is on the defendant to establish the non-existence of the defect.
What is required for a supplier to be liable under the Consumer Protection Act 1987?
The claimant must request, within a reasonable period after the damage occurs, that the supplier identify the producer, importer, or “own brander” of the product. If the supplier fails to comply within a reasonable period, they may be liable.
Under what circumstances may a solicitor exercise a lien over a client’s papers?
A solicitor may exercise a lien over a client’s papers for unpaid costs when the solicitor has delivered a bill or provided sufficient information to calculate the amount owing, as per section 69 of the Solicitors Act 1974.