Introduction to Preliminary and HSC Legal Studies

A series of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts in legal studies.

Law

A set of rules imposed on all members of a community, officially recognized, binding, and enforceable.

Parliament

A body of elected representatives responsible for making laws for a society.

Statute Law

Law enacted by a legislative body through statute or legislative process.

Common Law

Law developed by judges through decisions of courts and similar tribunals.

Criminal Law

The body of law that relates to crime and the punishment of those who violate laws.

Civil Law

The body of law that deals with disputes between individuals or organizations.

Electorate

A geographical boundary that divides a population into parts for electoral purposes.

Election

The process of voting to choose a political leader or representative in government.

Bill

A proposal for a new law, which is presented for debate and approval in parliament.

Constitution

The framework of laws and principles that establishes the nature, functions, and limits of government.

Division of Powers

The distribution of powers between different levels of government.

Separation of Powers

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent tyranny.

International Law

A body of rules established by treaty or custom and recognized by nations as binding.

Treaty

A formal agreement between two or more sovereign states.

Declaration

An international instrument that states the parties’ position on a particular issue without imposing binding obligations.

Law Reform

The process of changing laws to reflect societal changes or advancements.