Law is a term used to refer to rules that must be obeyed by members of society and enforced by social or governmental institutions. It is generally considered to be an essential component of modern societies, but its precise definition is subject to debate. The term can also be applied to any strong rule that must be obeyed, such as the rules of a game or even your own instinctive responses like fighting or fleeing when threatened with danger, but the word’s more common usage refers to specific types of legal restrictions.
Different theories of law exist, with some describing it as a system that aims to provide order and justice in society. Others see it as a way to protect individual rights from abuses by the state. In some societies, there is a constitution, written or tacit, which establishes a political framework that governs how laws are made and enforced.
Almost every aspect of human life is touched by some form of law. Some examples include labour law, which examines the tripartite industrial relationship between worker, employer and trade unions; immigration law which outlines a country’s policies on who can live and work within their borders; and property law which defines people’s rights toward both real and intangible assets. In addition, criminal and civil procedure concern the rules that must be followed as a case is tried or appealed and evidence law covers what materials are admissible in court for cases to be built.
The practice of law is often overseen by a government or independent regulating body, such as a bar association, bar council or law society. Lawyers are typically required to meet certain requirements, such as completing a legal education leading to a Bachelor of Laws, a Bachelor of Civil Laws or a Juris Doctor degree.
The law is often described in terms of its functions, such as ensuring a free press; guaranteeing equal access to public resources; protecting individual liberty; and limiting the growth of the state. A legal system is said to be good when it provides these and other principles, although it is not always possible to guarantee that a particular society’s law is perfect or fair.