Legal Studies Exam 1 (Part One)

(First 2 Pages of Syllabus)

What is the Meaning of Law (Define Law)

A system of rules created and enforced by governments to maintain order, protect rights, and resolve disputes in a society.

Customs (Define)

• Not Law Enforceable

• Applies to Everyone

• Societal Norms

• Family Influence

• Expectations of Individuals

Rules (Define)

• Clear Instructions or Guidelines

• Established by Authority

• Only Applicable to certain people in a specific place or situation

• Not law Enforcable

Law (Define)

• Enforceable by law

• Serious consequences if broken

• Apply to everyone in a certain jurisdiction

Values and Ethics (Define)

Moral Obligations not set out by authority but rather an individuals Choice

Values

• Prioritising significance of moral choice

• usually individuals

Ethics

• Instruct people on what is right and wrong in certain situations

• Usually more common/societal

Characteristics of Just Laws

• known to the public

• widely accepted

• provide stability and accessibility

• Follows the requirements of procedural fairness

• allows for different levels of severity

• upholds and protects human rights

Nature of Justice (Define)

• Equality

• Fairness

• Access

• Equality - Equal treatment, people who are in similar situations are treated equally

• Fairness - Impartial and just treatment or behaviour

• Access - The means or oppportunity to obtain or receive legal assistance

Procedural Fairness (Define and Discuss)

• the right to know what you are accused of ( and who is accusing you)

• the right to appeal

• the right to a fair hearing

• Ensures transparency in the legal system

• Ganeef (2007)

Anarchy (Define)

Anarchy refers to a situation where there is no government or law enforcement. It’s a state of lawlessness or disorder, where individuals or groups act without any authority or formal rules to govern their actions.

Tyranny (Define)

Tyranny is when a government or leader has absolute power and uses it in a cruel or oppressive way. It often involves ignoring laws, violating rights, and controlling people through fear or force. The government is typically not accountable to the people.