An Analysis of the English Common Law, Principles of Equity and Their Application in a Former British Colony, Cyprus

This book deals with the genesis, formation and development of two fundamental aspects of English Law, common law and equity. The common law laid down the rules governing cohabitation in communities and human rights. Equity was the offspring of natural law designed to prevent and remedy injustice resulting from unconscionable conduct. English law including both common law and equity was introduced in former British Colonies and dominions. In most of them it was retained after independence. This is the principal legacy of English colonization of countries. The introduction, application and retention of English law is reflected in Cyprus, a former British colony.

Georghios M. Pikis was Justice and Sequentially President of the Supreme Court of Cyprus from 1981-2004. He was elected and served as a member of the U.N. Committee against Torture, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment (part time mission). In 2002 he was elected President of the Circle of Presidents of the European Constitutional Courts and in 2003 he was elected Judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC) by the Assembly of State Parties (term decided by lot - 6 years). He was assigned to the Appeals Division of the ICC and served as the first President of the Division.