Which system consists of courts interpreting and applying law?

• A. CPS
• B. Police
• C. Prisons
• D. Judiciary

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is that interpreting and applying law through the court system is the function of the judiciary. The judiciary comprises judges and magistrates who hear civil and criminal cases, interpret statutes and prior case law, and apply the law to the facts of each case. They determine guilt or liability and, in criminal matters, impose sentences, all while upholding rights and ensuring fair procedures. The other parts of the system have different roles—the police enforce laws and gather evidence, the CPS decides on charging and prosecutes cases in court, and prisons manage the punishment and supervision of convicted offenders. So, when we talk about a system consisting of courts interpreting and applying law, we’re describing the judiciary.