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Chapter 5 · The UK government, the law and your role

Life in the UK test questions on civil law

Civil law deals with disputes between people rather than with crimes: unpaid debts, problems with a landlord, discrimination, and unfair dismissal at work. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice, and solicitors can act for you. Many cases are decided in the county courts, and employment disputes go to a tribunal.

Below are 5 free questions on civil law, taken from handbook section 5.17. Every one is written out in full with its answer and a plain-English explanation — no account, no sign-up and nothing hidden.

Practise civil law

Questions
5
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No limit
Pass mark
4 of 5 (75%)
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Questions and answers on civil law

The same 5 questions again, this time with the answers shown. Read the explanation even where you were right — the test asks the same facts several ways.

  1. 1. What is civil law used for?

    • Settling disputes between individuals or organisations — correct answer
    • Punishing people for crimes
    • Choosing the government
    • Deciding who sits in the House of Lords

    Civil law resolves disputes rather than punishing offenders. Typical cases involve debt, housing, employment or discrimination. Handbook section 5.17.

  2. 2. Which of these is a civil housing dispute?

    • A landlord refusing to carry out repairs the tenancy requires — correct answer
    • A burglary at a rented flat
    • Driving without a licence
    • Selling alcohol to a child

    Disagreements between landlords and tenants, such as repairs or unpaid rent, are civil matters and can be taken to a civil court. Handbook section 5.17.

  3. 3. What does the law say about discrimination at work?

    • It is unlawful to discriminate on grounds such as sex, race, disability, religion or age — correct answer
    • Employers may set any rules they wish
    • Discrimination is allowed in small businesses
    • Only discrimination by government employers is unlawful

    Discrimination law protects people from being treated worse because of characteristics such as sex, race, disability, age, religion or sexual orientation. Handbook section 5.17.

  4. 4. What does a solicitor do?

    • Gives legal advice and can act for you in a legal matter — correct answer
    • Decides whether you are guilty
    • Runs the local council
    • Sits on a jury

    Solicitors give legal advice and represent clients. Many advertise their charges, and some offer a free first meeting. Handbook section 5.17.

  5. 5. How can you find a solicitor to help with a civil problem?

    • Through the Law Society, online listings or a recommendation — correct answer
    • Only by asking a judge
    • Only through your MP
    • Only through your employer

    Solicitors can be found through the Law Society, online directories or personal recommendation. It is worth asking about fees before you start. Handbook section 5.17.

9 more questions on civil law

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