S/L/95. Critically assess how the art.234 procedure operates and critically examine the application of the acte clair doctrine

Through the use of both case and statutory law, this paper systematically discusses and critically asses the art.234 procedure which acts as a mechanism by which national courts may apply to the European Court of Justice when there arises uncertainty regarding the interpretation or validity of Acts of Community Institutions. The paper further explores and evaluates the acte clair doctrine which is initiated when courts of last resort are relieved from their obligation to refer a question to the European Court of Justice.