Meaning, Purpose and Terminology of the Law

Meaning of the Law

The Law is a system of rules that are created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to regulate behaviour.
Law is a fundamental aspect of human society and has been prevalent from the earliest civilizations.
It is used to ensure order, peace and justice in society, protecting individual rights and freedoms.

Purpose of Law

Maintaining Order - Laws provide a framework for society that helps maintain order and peaceful coexistence.
Establishing Standards - Law establishes a minimum acceptable level of behaviour for citizens.
Protecting Liberties and Rights - Laws ensure the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights and freedoms.
Promoting Equality - Laws aim to ensure everyone is treated equally and without discrimination.
Resolving Disputes - Legal rules and regulations provide a mechanism to resolve disputes.

Legal Terminology

Statute Law - These are laws that have been written down and codified by the UK Parliament or a devolved Parliament or Assembly.
Common Law - These are laws made by judges through their decisions in court cases. They form a significant part of the UK legal system.
Civil Law - This relates to disagreements between individuals, or between an individual and a business or organisation. Often these cases involve disputes about contracts, property, and family issues.
Criminal Law - This deals with behaviour that is considered ‘wrong’ by society and is harmful in some way. The State (government) pursues the case against the person accused of the crime.
Tort Law - This relates to civil wrongs that cause harm to someone. Its purpose is to right a wrong and provide relief from the wrongful acts of others, usually by awarding monetary damages.
Legislation - This is another term for law or laws that have been enacted by a legislature.
Jurisdiction - This refers to the power of a court to make decisions about people, property or events.
Precedent - This refers to a judicial decision that serves as a rule for settling similar future cases.