A concise introduction to all key aspects of the Irish legal system. New to this edition: The new EU Reform Treaty New legislation on defamation, civil partnerships and criminal law Developments in the area of human rights Additional contemporary case studies and tasks Introduces key principles of sources of Irish law, court structures and aspects of ADR. Examines areas of substantive law including tort, contract, criminal, consumer, European Union and human rights law. Presents a glossary of legal terms and an overview of methods of research and study techniques Clear learning outcomes, short and extended research tasks and self-test questions with suggested answers and key points promote independent learning skills. Provides a foundation for further specialised legal studies. Suitable For: FETAC students taking introductory law modules. A revision text for all academic and professional courses with an Irish legal system module. A concise introduction to all key aspects of the Irish legal system. New to this edition: The new EU Treaty of Lisbon New legislation on defamation, civil partnerships and criminal law Developments in the area of human rights Additional contemporary case studies and tasks. Examines key principles of the nature and sources of Irish law, including court structures, tort, contract, criminal, consumer, European Union and human rights law. Provides guidelines to resource materials, including the internet, and includes activities and tasks that encourage and promote their use. Short and extended self-test questions with suggested answers and key points promote independent learning. Provides a foundation for further specialised legal studies.