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Chapter 5 · The UK government, the law and your role

Life in the UK test questions on criminal law

Criminal offences include carrying a weapon, theft, drink driving, racial crime and selling drugs. Domestic violence is a crime, and so is hitting a child in a way that causes harm. Cases are brought by the police and the prosecution service, and the penalties range from a fine to a prison sentence.

Below are 5 free questions on criminal law, taken from handbook section 5.16. Every one is written out in full with its answer and a plain-English explanation — no account, no sign-up and nothing hidden.

Practise criminal law

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Questions and answers on criminal law

The same 5 questions again, this time with the answers shown. Read the explanation even where you were right — the test asks the same facts several ways.

  1. 1. What does criminal law deal with?

    • Behaviour that is treated as an offence against society and is punished by the courts — correct answer
    • Disputes between neighbours about a garden fence
    • The rules of political parties
    • Agreements between two businesses

    Criminal law covers conduct the state treats as an offence, such as theft or violence. It is usually investigated by the police and punished by the courts. Handbook section 5.16.

  2. 2. What is the minimum age for buying alcohol in a UK pub or shop?

    • 18 — correct answer
    • 16
    • 17
    • 21

    It is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under 18, and also illegal for someone under 18 to buy or try to buy it. Handbook section 5.16.

  3. 3. How does the law treat an attack on someone because of their religion or ethnic origin?

    • It is a criminal offence and is treated especially seriously — correct answer
    • It is a matter for the civil courts only
    • It is dealt with by the person's employer
    • It is not covered by the criminal law

    Attacking or harassing someone because of their race or religion is a crime, and the courts treat that motivation as making the offence worse. Handbook section 5.16.

  4. 4. Select the TWO things you must have before driving a car on a public road in the UK.

    • A valid driving licence — correct answer
    • Motor insurance — correct answer
    • A passport
    • A television licence

    You need a driving licence and insurance, and the vehicle must be taxed and, if it is old enough, have a valid MOT certificate. Handbook section 5.16.

  5. 5. How is domestic violence treated in the UK?

    • As a crime, whoever commits it and whatever the relationship — correct answer
    • As a private family matter outside the law
    • As a civil dispute only
    • As a matter for the local council

    Domestic violence is a criminal offence. Help is available from the police, from specialist support services and from the courts through protective orders. Handbook section 5.16.

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