Law, also known as the rule of law, is a set of rules that are enforceable by governmental or social institutions. This includes statutes and decrees made by government authorities or legislatures.
There are three main types of legal systems. These include common law, civil law, and international law. Common law legal systems are characterized by a higher degree of judicial decision-making. The judicial system, known as the court system, interprets and enforces laws in the name of the state.
Law is a set of rules governing the relationships between people. It serves as the framework for economic and political interactions. While it is often seen as a power backed by threats, in reality, law is a social process that shapes history.
Common legal issues include consumer rights, debt, housing, and immigration. Other subjects include crime and punishment, and social restrictions. Various articles on law are written to delineate how the law relates to ideology, politics, and the political structures of the country.
In modern society, it is a prerequisite to become a lawyer in order to practice. Lawyers usually hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. They also undergo a qualifying examination. Some universities offer a Master of Legal Studies.
The concept of law has been variously described as a science or an art. Some philosophers, such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, defined law as moral laws of nature. Others, such as John Austin, have argued that the practice of law is a profession based on the exercise of powers by a sovereign.