Law is a body of rules created and enforced by institutions that regulate human behavior. It is often viewed as a science and an art, with precise definitions a matter of debate. Laws may be derived from natural or social order, and they can serve various goals, including keeping the peace, maintaining the status quo, preserving individual rights, protecting minorities against majorities, promoting justice and providing for orderly socioeconomic change. Some legal systems are more effective at achieving these goals than others.
The word law is derived from the Old Norse word lag, meaning “a fixed tune.” It refers to a set of rules established by a community that must be obeyed. Laws can be formal, imposing punishment on violators, or informal, encouraging compliance. They can be imposed by government or by private individuals. In the latter case, they can be called natural or moral laws. Natural laws are usually based on concepts of right and wrong, the will of a deity or god, or the principles of natural justice. They can also be rooted in cultural values, instinctive behavior, or common sense.
The practice of law involves interpreting and applying laws, and advising clients on legal issues. Lawyers must be familiar with a wide range of subjects, such as constitutional law and the structure and operation of governments. They must also understand the legal system in a particular jurisdiction, which can vary greatly from country to country.
A legal system’s ability to maintain a stable society depends on the quality of its laws. People disagree about what those laws should be, and sometimes they find themselves in conflict with one another. Laws can help resolve disputes peacefully, for example by deciding who owns a piece of property. They can also ensure that people do not harm each other or their environment, protect citizens’ privacy, and ensure the impartiality of courts and police.
Some examples of legal terms include:
appellate – A request, usually by the plaintiff or the defendant, that an appeals court review a lower court’s decision. Depending on the circumstances, an appeal can be granted on the grounds of a mistrial or improper jury selection.
discovery – The examination by lawyers of evidence in a case before it goes to trial, usually involving written documents or recorded testimony. It is generally conducted during the prosecution phase of a lawsuit.
indictment – A judicial finding that there is sufficient evidence to charge someone with a crime, and which can result in a trial before a judge or grand jury.
restraining order – A temporary order that prohibits an action until a hearing can be held.
docket – A log of brief entries about a case in a court of law.
en banc – When a court decides to sit with its entire bench rather than the usual quorum of judges.
Law can be categorized into many different areas, such as criminal law, administrative law, and tax law. These fields can be further subdivided into specific topics, such as employment law, corporate law, and tort law.
