In this unique book Lord Woolf recounts his remarkable career and
provides a personal and honest perspective on the most important
developments in the common law over the last half century.
The book opens with a comprehensive description of his family
background, which was very influential on his later life, starting with
the arrival of his grandparents as Jewish immigrants to England in 1870.
His recollections of his early years and family, education and life as a
student lead into his early career as a barrister and as a Treasury
Devil, moving on to his judicial career and the many roles taken
therein. The numerous standout moments examined include his work on
access to the judiciary, prison reform, and suggested reforms to the
European Court of Human Rights. Fascinating insights into the defining
cases of his career, T AG v Jonathan Cape, Gouriet v Union of Post
Office Workers, Tameside, Hazel v Hammersmith, M v Home Office,
remind the reader of how impactful his influence has been. He considers
the setting of the mandatory component of the life sentences of Thompson
and Venables and the Diane Blood case. Alongside the case law, and the
Woolf Reforms, the Constitutional Law Reform Act 2005 is also explored.
Considering the ebb and flow of changes over his remarkable judicial
life, Lord Woolf identifies those he welcomes, but also expresses regret
on what has been lost. A book to remind lawyers, be they students,
practitioners or scholars, of the power and importance of law.
All author profits from the book will be donated to the Woolf
Institute.
