The Use of Algorithms in Decision-Making: An Ethical Conundrum Amber Francisca Ling Yi Rong This essay considers the ethical complexities of using algorithms in decision-making processes in the justice system in the UK, with a focus on the principle of explainability. While algorithmic decision-making tools offer improved efficiency and consistency, their implementation within justice systems raises serious accountability, transparency, and fairness issues. The paper argues t

Is Fear Enough? Hart and the Limits of Legal Coercion Freya Arden When we think of law, what often comes to mind is punishment, sanctions and fear. Yet H.L.A Hart rejects this coercive view, arguing that such features are not central to the nature of modern legal systems. Hart insists that his limited emphasis on these elements is not a shortcoming, but a deliberate and compelling strength of his legal positivist theory, arguing against coercion-based accounts advanced by the

Beyond Legal Illusions: How the Law Perpetuates Modern Slavery and Exploitation Ellie Roberts Slavery and human trafficking are two of the most grave and inhumane violations of human rights. Although these are criminalised offences worldwide, they continue to exist and corrupt the lives of thousands of individuals annually. An estimated 50 million people were experiencing modern slavery on any given day in 2021, representing an increase of 10 million since 2016.  Therefore, i

Prisoner Rights: How the Failure to Enforce Rights Threatens to Undermine Social Justice Millie Condron In recent years, prisoner rights have been a major point of contention amongst both the state and the public. Prisoners are entitled to several rights during their detainment, yet there is growing evidence that suggests these rights are not respected in practice, which poses a significant threat to social justice. This paper examines the current hardships and setbacks ingra

The Law’s Forgotten Profession: Why the Legal Framework on Prostitution is not fit for purpose Felicia Crowle The law relating to prostitution in England and Wales is in urgent need of reform as it is not fit for purpose. One of the most crucial purposes of legislation is to protect the rights and liberties of citizens. However, the legal system fails to fulfil this objective when it comes to prostitution, instead serving to further amplify the vulnerabilities of sex workers.

When Murder Becomes Tradition: The Brutal Reality of Honour Killings Anfal Al-Brashdi In a time where many women live in constant fear of violence, especially from strangers, some face an even more terrifying reality: the threat of death at the hands of their own families. What kind of values encourage a father to kill his daughter, a brother to kill his sister, or a husband to kill his wife? More importantly, how can a society not only turn a blind eye, but actively allow, a

Ashes to Ashes; and the Dust on the Coroners Court Lycoris Bower This short report first outlines the current legislation surrounding the function of the Coroners’ Court before launching into four key recommendations to address these failures: implementing standardised bereavement care and training for coroners; expanding legal education and accessible guidance on the inquest process; strengthening the use of narrative conclusions and Prevention of Future Death reports to dri

Innovation on Prescription: A Critical Analysis of the Pharmaceutical Industry’s Concerns Over Drug Regulation and Delays Agnieszka Marecka The pharmaceutical industry’s concerns about excessive regulation and slow approvals hindering innovation are overstated. This essay argues that regulation is not inherently antagonistic to progress but functions as a mechanism of optimisation, balancing the protection of public health with the need for scientific advancement. While indus

The Illusion of Freedom: Reassessing Decentralisation in Blockchain Technology Olivia Mayne Blockchain technology is more than a public, digital ledger, it is a disruptive force that challenges governments, economies, and legal systems globally. This paper explores the dual nature of blockchain as a symbol of individual freedom and a tool of control. Blockchain technology represents a transformative yet contradicting innovation, often referred to as a pathway to decentralisat