Introduction to Law
What is a law?
A system of official rules and guidelines created and enforced by a governing authority to regulate behavior in society.
What function of law creates rules that help society stay safe, organized, and predictable?
Maintaining Order.
Which type of law deals with offenses that harm society or threaten public safety?
Criminal Law.
What type of law is created by legislatures such as Congress, state legislatures, or city councils?
Statutory Law.
A driver gets a ticket for speeding. What type of law is most directly involved?
Criminal law / a violation of a traffic law.
Unlike social norms or household rules, what makes a law different?
Laws have formal authority, apply to people within a jurisdiction, and have legal consequences when violated.
What function of law protects freedoms such as speech, religion, privacy, and the right to a fair trial?
Protecting Fundamental Rights.
Who brings a criminal case against a defendant?
The government prosecutor.
What type of law is based on the U.S. Constitution and state constitutions?
Constitutional Law.
A homeowner sues a contractor for failing to complete a renovation. Is this most likely criminal or civil?
Civil.
What are the four core purposes of law?
Set standards, maintain order, resolve conflicts, and protect rights.
What function of law allows courts to settle disagreements instead of people using threats, violence, or retaliation?
Resolving Public & Private Disputes.
What is the burden of proof in a criminal case?
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.
What type of law consists of rules created by government agencies such as the EPA, FDA, OSHA, or DMV?
Administrative Law.
The EPA fines a factory for releasing unapproved emissions into a river. What type of law is involved?
Administrative law.
What concept describes an unwritten agreement in which citizens give up some individual freedom in exchange for protection, security, and structured rights?
The Social Contract.
A law says two people who commit the same crime should be treated the same regardless of their wealth or social status. What function of law does this demonstrate?
Promoting Equality Under Law.
What type of case involves a plaintiff suing a defendant for damages after being injured in a car accident?
A civil case.
What type of law develops through historical court decisions and judicial rulings?
Common Law.
A law requiring drivers to wear seat belts can serve several functions. Name two.
Possible answers include:
Under the Rule of Law, who must follow the law?
Everyone—including citizens, police officers, judges, politicians, and government officials.
The government makes laws, but government officials must also obey those laws. What function of law is this?
Regulating Government Power.
A person is charged with robbery. The victim also sues that person for medical expenses and property damage. What two types of cases could be involved?
A criminal case brought by the government and a civil case brought by the victim.
What legal doctrine means courts generally follow established precedent from previous cases?
Stare Decisis.
A wealthy person and a person with little money commit the same crime under the same circumstances. Under the Rule of Law, should they receive different treatment because of their wealth?
No. Laws should apply equally regardless of wealth, status, or power.