Law is the set of rules that are devised and enforceable by social or governmental institutions to regulate behavior, with its precise definition a matter of longstanding debate. It has been variously described as a science and as the art of justice.
In a democratic society, law informs everyday life in many ways. Its principal goals are to establish standards, maintain order, resolve disputes and protect liberties and rights. In a democracy, laws are created and enforced by representatives or officials who are accountable to the people. This requires the rule of law to be clear, publicly disclosed and stable as well as ensure that the processes by which the laws are adopted, administered and adjudicated are accessible and fair to all.
Throughout the ages, laws have evolved and adapted to the changing social landscape. The Roman law code, for example, was heavily influenced by Greek philosophy and underwent extensive codification in the medieval period. Likewise, the common law of England evolved through the courts’ decisions and the writings of legal scholars who drew from a number of sources, including the earlier Roman codes and Latin legal maxims.
The nature and complexity of the laws vary widely from nation to nation. For example, immigration law and nationality law concern the rights of people to live and work in a country that is not their own or to acquire or lose citizenship of that country. Family law deals with marriage, divorce and the rights of children and their property. Criminal law governs conduct that is considered harmful to the community and provides for punishment of the offender.
In addition, there are numerous branches of law that govern specific activities. Contract law concerns agreements to exchange goods, services or anything of value. Tort law provides compensation for those who have been harmed, whether by an automobile accident or defamation of character. Criminal law covers offenses against the state and provides for the government to punish those who break the rules.
The most fundamental tenet of the law is that it must be uniform as to person and situation. It is also important that the laws must be reasonable. For example, a judge should not make a ruling that is patently unreasonable or inconsistent with God’s law. Despite these limitations, laws can play an important role in a well-ordered society. This is especially true if the processes by which they are adopted, administered and adjudicated provide reasonable assurances that justice is being done.