A concise, well-written overview of the development of the English legal system. This is a great book to read whether you are beginning a quest to master English legal history or just want the highlights. Sources are well-documented if one wishes to learn more about any particluar subject.

The book focuses on legal history since the time of William the Conqueror. However, it does include some Anglo-Saxon legal history from 600 AD - 1066 AD just to show how Anglo-Saxon legal thought was incorporated post-invasion.

Perhaps one downfall is the frequent reference to kings and their impact on aspects of the law; there is an assumption the reader has solid a historical knowledge of the monarchy. If the reader is a novice to such history, the references are confusing and he or she may need to consult outside sources to better understand the text.