The Human Rights Act of 1998 brings human rights into the judicial context and incorporates provisions of the European Convention into the law of the United Kingdom. The European Convention covers the right of individuals to petition the European Court of Human Rights. When it comes into force in October 2000, the Human Rights Act will affect the way existing laws, procedures, and practices are applied in the United Kingdom and also stipulates what courts must do to protect human rights. The authors address human rights under the European Convention, human rights in practice, criminal law and procedure, human rights and family matters, and human rights in the youth court. Additional information on the Human Rights Act and on a structured approach to human rights decision-making is appended.