Brian Opeskin

This book reinvigorates the field of socio-legal inquiry examining the relationship between law and demography. Originally conceived as 'population law' in the 1960s following a growth in population and a use of law to temper population growth, this book takes a new approach by examining how population change can affect the legal system, rather than the converse. It analyses the impact of demographic change on the judicial system, with a geographic focus on Australian courts but with global insights and it raises questions about institutional structures. Through four case studies, it examines how demographic change impacts on the judicial system and how should the judicial system adapt to embody a greater preparedness for the demographic changes that lie ahead? It makes recommendations for reform and speaks to applied demographers, socio-legal scholars, and those interested in judicial institutions.

This book reinvigorates the field of socio-legal inquiry examining the relationship between law and demography. Originally conceived as 'population law' in the 1960s following a growth in population and a use of law to temper population growth, this book takes a new approach by examining how population change can affect the legal system, rather than the converse. It analyses the impact of demographic change on the judicial system, with a geographic focus on Australian courts but with global insights and it raises questions about institutional structures. Through four case studies, it examines how demographic change impacts on the judicial system and how should the judicial system adapt to embody a greater preparedness for the demographic changes that lie ahead? It makes recommendations for reform and speaks to applied demographers, socio-legal scholars, and those interested in judicial institutions.

The Australian court system continues to be the subject of debate and disagreement. Since the appearance of the first edition, Australian Courts of Law has been the standard work on the Australian court system. Now fully revised and updated, it provides a succinct guide to, and analysis of Australian courts and tribunals, their jusrsidiction and their functioning. Australian Courts of Law provides authoritative and comprehensive coverage of all material pertaining to Australian sources. Controversial issues in recent years have included the need for better case management procedures by courts, the growing importance of alternative dispute resolution, and the relationship between courts and tribunals, as well as between specialist and generalist courts. The book traces the development of the Australian court system from their English and colonial origins and gives an up-to-date account of the modern system. Australian Courts of Law is essential reading for all law students and high school legal studies students, and is recommended for anyone seeking an introduction to the Australian courts and the Australian legal system, or interested in further information on their workings and problems.