The law is steeped in tradition, but is also an ever evolving field which impacts on everything that we do. This is no more apparent than in the function and work of public sector bodies, many of which are created and regulated under statute. Public administrators often have to play significant roles in the conduct of civil disputes, even if they have little experience of legal processes. It is therefore beneficial for public servants to have a broad overview of the Irish legal system. By the end of the seminar delegates will:

• receive a general overview of the Irish legal system, the machinery of justice and the impact of European law;
• gain an understanding of the common law and the importance of legal precedent;
• understand the role of the Irish Constitution and the role of the EU law in the state;
• understand the functioning of the Court System;
• understand how both civil and criminal proceedings are commenced.