Legal research

Held unanimously that the advice to prorogue Parliament for five weeks was unlawful, void and of no effect because it frustrated Parliament's constitutional functions without reasonable justification.

Set out the threefold test for a duty of care in novel cases: foreseeability of damage, proximity of relationship, and whether it is fair, just and reasonable to impose a duty.

Recognised liability for negligent misstatement causing pure economic loss where there is a special relationship and an assumption of responsibility.

Founded the modern law of negligence with the neighbour principle: a manufacturer owes a duty of care to the ultimate consumer of its product.

Confirmed that a duly incorporated company is a separate legal person distinct from its shareholders, however few they may be.

Classic authority on unilateral contracts: an advertisement promising a reward can be an offer accepted by performance of the stipulated conditions.

Established strict liability for the escape of a dangerous thing brought onto land in a non-natural use of that land.