The book "Australian Legal Words and Phrases" is a reference tool that provides a comprehensive listing of words and phrases that have been defined in legislation or judicially interpreted. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

• Legal Terminology: The book focuses on the terminology used in Australian law, aiming to simplify complex legal concepts for easier understanding.
• Legislative Definitions: It includes definitions of words and phrases as they appear in Australian legislation, making it a valuable resource for legal professionals, students, and anyone interested in Australian law.
• Judicial Interpretation: The book also covers judicial interpretations of these terms, providing a broad understanding of how they are used in legal contexts.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a narrative plot but rather serves as a reference guide. It is organized in a way that allows users to quickly look up and understand specific legal terms and phrases. The content is structured to include definitions, examples, and references to relevant legislation and judicial decisions.

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception available in the provided sources, the book's purpose and content suggest it is well-regarded for its utility in legal education and practice. The inclusion of an index and bibliography (pages 299-300) indicates a level of scholarly attention and organization, which is typically well-received in academic and professional circles.

Editions and Publication

The book has undergone editions, with the most recent one being "Blackstone's Australian Legal Words & Phrases Simplified" compiled by John M. Bishop. The first edition was published in 1990, and the new edition was published in 1993 by Blackstone Press in Bondi Junction, New South Wales.

Availability

The book is available at various libraries, including the Waranara Library Automated Retrieval Collection at Macquarie University and the State Library of Queensland. It can also be accessed through Copies Direct under certain circumstances.

In summary, "Australian Legal Words and Phrases" is a crucial reference tool for anyone dealing with Australian law, providing clear and concise definitions of legal terms and phrases. Its critical reception is implied through its utility and the attention to detail in its compilation.