A Level Law Practice Exam

What is a key feature of the Supreme Court's ability to overrule itself?

1. It is rare and only happens in extreme cases

2. It must follow the Practice Statement of 1966

3. It can never overrule past precedents

4. It applies only to criminal law matters

The correct answer is: It must follow the Practice Statement of 1966

The ability of the Supreme Court to overrule itself is indeed guided by the Practice Statement of 1966, which was introduced to provide flexibility in the development of the law. This statement allows the Supreme Court to depart from its previous decisions when it is considered that a prior ruling is no longer appropriate or reflects outdated principles. The Practice Statement underscores the court's role in adapting the law to reflect changes in society and legal understanding, allowing for the evolution of legal precedents. Although overruling past decisions is relatively rare and usually occurs in significant cases, the key feature here is the procedural framework established by the Practice Statement, which specifies how and when the court may choose to reassess and potentially overturn its own rulings. This is a fundamental aspect of the court’s authority in maintaining the integrity and relevance of the law over time. The other options do not accurately represent this process; for example, the court does have the power to overrule past precedents, and its ability to do so is not confined to criminal law matters only.