MPs are tasked with solving the U.K’s biggest challenges within a complex system. Law for Lawmakers, first published in 2015, supports MPs in getting to grips with their roles in Westminster.  

The guide explains the key legal and constitutional principles to help politicians of all parties and their staff review new legislation, table and write amendments to Bills, support their constituents, and more. 

Andrew Denny, head of U.K. public law at A&O Shearman said: “It’s a great pleasure for A&O Shearman to support JUSTICE in creating the updated Law for Lawmakers guide. The rule of law and good lawmaking underpin our democracy – they are crucial to the U.K. economy and to society as a whole. 51% of MPs are sitting in Parliament for the first time, so this guide couldn’t be more relevant.”

Former Lord Chancellor and ex-Secretary of State for Justice Rt Hon Alex Chalk KC, said: “The world of the law, of bewigged judges and judicial review, can feel like a secret garden to MPs – to new ones in particular. This excellent guide gives them the key.”

JUSTICE has a long history of scrutinising lawmaking and developing pragmatic solutions to strengthen the rule of law. Its briefings and analysis are frequently referenced in Parliamentary debates and it regularly gives evidence on justice issues to Parliamentary committees.

Fiona Rutherford, Chief Executive of JUSTICE, said: “The rule of law is the foundation of our democracy, protecting us from arbitrary state power, providing certainty for businesses, and safeguarding courts’ impartiality.  

“This guide gives every MP the tools they need to act as custodians of our democracy.”  

JUSTICE is set to offer training opportunities and clinics on the guide for MPs and their staff over the coming months. 

We are delighted to have supported JUSTICE on this project, and particular thanks go to Andrew Denny, Michael Godden, Sarah Morreau, Frances Beddow, George Byrne Hill, Alexander Walsh, Alastair Madeley, Daisy Cutler, Rebecca Collins, Robert Thompson, Lauren Kennedy, Mark Maguire, Arthur Tan.

Learn more about JUSTICE and the Law for Lawmakers guide, here.