This book takes a unique approach focusing on the cornerstones of legal method - precedent and statutory interpretation - to provide students with an understanding of the basic principles of law. It uses case studies to demonstrate the link between the mechanics of statutory interpretation, precedent and substantive law, whilst drawing on critical legal theory and introducing the major critical perspectives.

You either lie down and die, or you fight.

In 1938 a knockabout 11-year-old kid from Marrickville, Sydney, is suddenly confronted by mortality. His mother dies. His father has little time for him and at 14 he leaves school to learn a trade.

In 2016 that same boy is a multi-millionaire. He owns - and runs - the Australian Development Corporation, Sydney City Marine, a host of associated companies and countless office and housing blocks. He is also one of the world's most successful sailors, having won Sydney-Hobart races in his Ragamuffin yachts and competed eight...