Stroud's Judicial Dictionary of Words and Phrases

"Stroud's Judicial Dictionary of Words and Phrases" is a comprehensive law dictionary that has been a cornerstone in legal research for over a century. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes and Content

• Historical Context: The dictionary was first published in 1890 by Frederick Stroud, with subsequent editions and supplements published over the years. The latest edition is the 11th, published in 2024.
• Legal Terminology: The dictionary provides precise and authoritative definitions of words and phrases used in a legal context. It is an indispensable tool for lawyers and researchers, offering quick access to exact meanings.
• Structure: The dictionary is typically published in three volumes, covering a wide range of topics including judicial review, grounds for judicial review, procedures, and remedies.
• Judicial Review: The dictionary delves into the nature of judicial review, grounds for review (such as illegality, substantive review, legitimate expectations, procedural fairness, and bias), and procedures and remedies related to judicial review.

Critical Reception

• Academic Praise: Glanville Williams described the dictionary as an "excellent work".
• Leading Modern Dictionary: Katherine Topulos noted that the seventh edition is one of "the leading modern English legal dictionaries".
• Continued Relevance: The dictionary remains the starting point for research into the meaning of all words and phrases used in a legal context, as stated in the 11th edition.

Editions and Editors

• First Edition: Published by Frederick Stroud in 1890.
• Subsequent Editions: The second edition was also by Stroud, published in 1903. Supplements were added by various editors, including Elsie Wheeler (1930), John Burke (1947), and John S. James (1979).
• Current Editions: The 11th edition is the latest, with annual cumulative supplements. Daniel Greenberg has been involved in editing editions since the 6th edition and currently serves as Counsel for Domestic Legislation in the House of Commons.

Dedication

Each edition contains a dedication to H.S., Frederick Stroud's friend and wife, who took an affectionate interest in the enterprise but whose early death was a significant loss.

Practical Use

The dictionary is designed to provide quick access to authoritative meanings, making it an essential tool for practitioners and researchers alike. It is available in both print and digital formats, offering online and offline access to thousands of legal and tax titles.