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Aleksandra
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Btec Applied Law Unit 2 exam revision notes
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10 Dec 2025
•
Comprehensive BTEC Applied Law Unit 2 Revision Guide
Aleksandra
@alex.do
1 / 4
Civil Law Basics and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Civil law deals with disputes between individuals, businesses, or a mix of both - think contract disagreements or personal injury claims. Unlike criminal cases, the goal isn't punishment but finding solutions and compensating the claimant if the defendant is found liable.
The standard of proof in civil cases is "balance of probabilities" - basically, did something more likely happen than not? This is much lower than criminal cases, making it easier to prove your case.
Before rushing to court, there are five Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) options worth considering. Arbitration involves an expert making a legally binding decision you can't appeal. Conciliation and mediation help parties reach agreements, with mediators facilitating discussion rather than deciding outcomes. Negotiation involves direct talks between parties, whilst an ombudsman provides free, independent help mainly for organisational disputes.
Quick Tip: Solicitors will always try negotiation before heading to court - it's faster and cheaper!
Court System and Getting Legal Help
The civil court hierarchy ensures cases go to the right level based on complexity and claim value. County Courts handle most cases: Small Claims Track (up to £10k), Fast Track (up to £25k), and Multi Track (over £25k or complex cases). The High Court takes claims over £100k, split into three divisions: King's Bench, Chancery, and Family.
Getting legal advice doesn't have to break the bank. Solicitors and barristers offer expert help but cost money, whilst Citizens Advice Bureau and law centres provide free guidance. Don't overlook your insurance company - many policies include legal advice.
Funding your case has several options depending on your situation. Legal aid helps those earning £12,475 or less, whilst conditional fee arrangements (no win, no fee) are increasingly popular. Trade unions often cover work-related injuries for members.
Reality Check: Taking legal action involves court costs, legal representation fees, and potential liability for the other side's expenses if you lose - plus hidden costs like stress and time off work.
How Legal Precedent Works
Judicial precedent is like a legal rulebook built from past cases - when judges make decisions, they create rules that future similar cases must follow. This system, called stare decisis (following previous decisions), ensures consistency and fairness across the legal system.
There are two types: binding precedent (must be followed, like the famous Donoghue v Stevenson case) and judicial precedent (judges following similar past cases). However, courts can avoid precedents through distinguishing (facts don't match), overruling (higher court says previous decision was wrong), or reversing (higher court changes lower court's decision on appeal).
The court hierarchy determines which precedents apply where. Supreme Court decisions bind everyone below, Court of Appeal must follow Supreme Court but can sometimes ignore its own past decisions, and lower courts must follow higher court rulings.
Every judgment contains ratio decidendi and obiter dicta . With around 2,500 law reports published yearly, there's plenty of precedent to work with!
Pro Tip: Precedent saves time in court because judges have ready-made guidelines, but it can be rigid when society's values change faster than the law.
Proving Negligence and Getting Compensation
To win a negligence case, you must prove three elements: duty of care (using the Caparo test for foreseeability, proximity, and fairness), breach of that duty, and damage. The tricky bit is proving causation - both factual (would this have happened anyway?) and legal (was the chain of events unbroken?).
Damages aim to put you back where you'd be if the incident never happened. Special damages cover calculable losses like medical bills and lost wages, whilst general damages compensate for pain, suffering, and future earnings loss. You must mitigate your losses (keep them minimal) or risk reduced compensation.
The burden of proof lies with you as claimant - you must show on balance of probabilities that your version of events is more likely true than not. Sometimes res ipsa loquitur applies when the incident clearly resulted from someone's negligence (like a barrel falling from a window).
Payment usually comes as a lump sum for immediate costs, though structured settlements offer ongoing monthly payments plus contingency funds for future needs. Your choice depends on the injury's long-term impact and your financial situation.
Key Point: The file note and letter formats in exams follow strict structures - master these templates and you'll handle any negligence scenario with confidence.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Comprehensive BTEC Applied Law Unit 2 Revision Guide
Aleksandra
@alex.do
Ever wondered how civil disputes get resolved when individuals or businesses clash? Civil law provides a structured system to sort out disagreements and compensate those who've been wronged, offering multiple pathways from informal negotiations to formal court proceedings.
Civil Law Basics and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Civil law deals with disputes between individuals, businesses, or a mix of both - think contract disagreements or personal injury claims. Unlike criminal cases, the goal isn't punishment but finding solutions and compensating the claimant if the defendant is found liable.
The standard of proof in civil cases is "balance of probabilities" - basically, did something more likely happen than not? This is much lower than criminal cases, making it easier to prove your case.
Before rushing to court, there are five Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) options worth considering. Arbitration involves an expert making a legally binding decision you can't appeal. Conciliation and mediation help parties reach agreements, with mediators facilitating discussion rather than deciding outcomes. Negotiation involves direct talks between parties, whilst an ombudsman provides free, independent help mainly for organisational disputes.
Quick Tip: Solicitors will always try negotiation before heading to court - it's faster and cheaper!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Court System and Getting Legal Help
The civil court hierarchy ensures cases go to the right level based on complexity and claim value. County Courts handle most cases: Small Claims Track (up to £10k), Fast Track (up to £25k), and Multi Track (over £25k or complex cases). The High Court takes claims over £100k, split into three divisions: King's Bench, Chancery, and Family.
Getting legal advice doesn't have to break the bank. Solicitors and barristers offer expert help but cost money, whilst Citizens Advice Bureau and law centres provide free guidance. Don't overlook your insurance company - many policies include legal advice.
Funding your case has several options depending on your situation. Legal aid helps those earning £12,475 or less, whilst conditional fee arrangements (no win, no fee) are increasingly popular. Trade unions often cover work-related injuries for members.
Reality Check: Taking legal action involves court costs, legal representation fees, and potential liability for the other side's expenses if you lose - plus hidden costs like stress and time off work.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
How Legal Precedent Works
Judicial precedent is like a legal rulebook built from past cases - when judges make decisions, they create rules that future similar cases must follow. This system, called stare decisis (following previous decisions), ensures consistency and fairness across the legal system.
There are two types: binding precedent (must be followed, like the famous Donoghue v Stevenson case) and judicial precedent (judges following similar past cases). However, courts can avoid precedents through distinguishing (facts don't match), overruling (higher court says previous decision was wrong), or reversing (higher court changes lower court's decision on appeal).
The court hierarchy determines which precedents apply where. Supreme Court decisions bind everyone below, Court of Appeal must follow Supreme Court but can sometimes ignore its own past decisions, and lower courts must follow higher court rulings.
Every judgment contains ratio decidendi and obiter dicta . With around 2,500 law reports published yearly, there's plenty of precedent to work with!
Pro Tip: Precedent saves time in court because judges have ready-made guidelines, but it can be rigid when society's values change faster than the law.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Proving Negligence and Getting Compensation
To win a negligence case, you must prove three elements: duty of care (using the Caparo test for foreseeability, proximity, and fairness), breach of that duty, and damage. The tricky bit is proving causation - both factual (would this have happened anyway?) and legal (was the chain of events unbroken?).
Damages aim to put you back where you'd be if the incident never happened. Special damages cover calculable losses like medical bills and lost wages, whilst general damages compensate for pain, suffering, and future earnings loss. You must mitigate your losses (keep them minimal) or risk reduced compensation.
The burden of proof lies with you as claimant - you must show on balance of probabilities that your version of events is more likely true than not. Sometimes res ipsa loquitur applies when the incident clearly resulted from someone's negligence (like a barrel falling from a window).
Payment usually comes as a lump sum for immediate costs, though structured settlements offer ongoing monthly payments plus contingency funds for future needs. Your choice depends on the injury's long-term impact and your financial situation.
Key Point: The file note and letter formats in exams follow strict structures - master these templates and you'll handle any negligence scenario with confidence.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Jurisprudence
Most popular content in History
Most popular content
English - inspector calls quotes and analysis
Quotes from every main character
English Literature10
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user