A Guide to the Basics of Law

Law

Law is a system of rules that governs human conduct and protects the rights of people. This is essential for the development of democracy in society and it helps individuals to live their lives in a manner that is beneficial for themselves, others and society as a whole.

1. Definition: The word “law” refers to the principles and regulations established by a Government that apply to all citizens, and are enforced by judicial decision.

The term “law” is sometimes used to describe the governing structure of a nation, but it refers more often to the principles and procedures that are applied in a country’s courts.

2. Definition: A rule of civil conduct prescribed by the supreme power of a state, commanding what its subjects are to do and prohibiting what they are to forbear; a statute.

3. Criminal law; a system of laws that regulates the wrongful conduct of individuals and punishes them for their acts or omissions.

5. Definition: An established and permanent rule, enacted by a sovereign authority, that is prescribed for the regulating of social actions, especially piety and morality.

6. Legal dictionary; a book that gives basic definitions of terms related to law.

The word “law” is derived from the Latin word lex which means “rule.” In addition to providing definitions, law dictionaries provide facts and details on law topics, usually arranged alphabetically. Some legal dictionaries also include an index of words by meaning.

7. Restatement of the law; a multi-volume set that summaries various laws, often in great detail.

This is an excellent resource for law students as they learn about and practice the law. It covers a wide range of topics, including conflicts of law, contracts, judgments, property, torts, and trusts. Its articles are accompanied by footnotes to statutes, case law, and other primary sources.

8. Legal journals; a collection of articles devoted to a particular topic in law that is published on a periodic basis.

These journals cover a variety of subjects and are generally available in the law library. They offer commentary on emerging areas of the law, and topics that are undergoing change. They are often updated frequently, so you should check them periodically to see if they have added articles in the past few months.

9. Legislative codes; a collection of laws compiled by legislatures, the executive branch of government, and published in bound volumes called “session laws.”

10. Words and phrases; a multi-volume set that organizes legal terms of art as embodied in single terms or phrases, with cross references.

It includes a holdings statement for cases that discuss the origin of these terms. It also cites and discusses authorities, often in chronological order.

This is a good resource for legal research because it provides an overview of the law and law-related issues without the in-depth analysis of a treatise. Its articles include footnotes to statutes, case law, or other primary sources, and are updated regularly.