Law A-Level
The Principle of Legality
What The Principle of Legality means in Law A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of The Principle of Legality
The requirement that criminal liability must be based on clear, pre-existing law, preventing arbitrary punishment and ensuring the 'nullum crimen sine lege' doctrine is upheld within the English legal system.
Topics that use The Principle of Legality
- Criminal law (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Actus reus
- Appropriation
- Dishonesty
- Justification vs Excuse
- Legal Liberalism and Autonomy
- Legislative Reform
- Mens rea
- Public Policy and Consent
Using The Principle of Legality in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
Practise Law questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Law A-Level terms7 days Premium · Then free forever · No card, no charge