Legal

Legal refers to matters related to the law, which is a system of rules created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to regulate behavior. Law as a system helps regulate and ensure that a community shows respect, and equality amongst themselves. State-enforced laws can be made by a collective legislature or by a single legislator, resulting in statutes, by the executive through decrees and regulations, or established by judges through precedent, normally in common law jurisdictions. Private individuals can create legally binding contracts, including arbitration agreements that may elect to accept alternative arbitration to the normal court process. The formation of laws themselves may be influenced by a constitution, written or tacit, and the rights encoded therein. The law shapes politics, economics, history and society in various ways and serves as a mediator of relations between people.

Legal Systems

There are numerous legal systems in the world, which can be grouped into several major types:

• Common Law: Based on the principle of judicial precedent, common law systems can be seen predominantly in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries once part of the British Empire.
• Civil Law: Found in much of Europe, Asia, and Africa, civil law systems are codified and not heavily reliant on court decisions, but on codes which cover all matters capable of being brought before a court.
• Religious Law: Including Islamic Sharia and Jewish Halakha, religious legal systems are based on religious scriptures that guide not only personal behavior but also dictate certain legal principles.
• Customary Law: Often practiced in rural areas and developing regions, customary law is based on the long-standing traditions and practices of a specific culture or community.

Legal Profession

The legal profession is a cornerstone of the legal system, encompassing the roles of lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals who help interpret, apply, and create laws. Lawyers provide legal advice to clients, represent them in negotiations and court proceedings, and draft legal documents. Judges, on the other hand, oversee the legal process in courts, interpret laws, and make rulings.

Legal Education

Legal education varies by country, but generally involves post-graduate studies at a law school or faculty of law. In many countries, completing a law degree is followed by additional training and examinations required to become a licensed lawyer.

Legal Issues

Legal issues can arise in every aspect of society. Whether it involves questions about contracts, rights to property, or personal freedoms, the law is often called upon to resolve disputes and provide justice.

See Also

• Constitutional law
• Criminal law
• Contract law
• Tort law
• Property law
• Human rights