Australian Legal System Overview

These flashcards are designed to assist in reviewing key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the Australian Legal System.

Statutory Interpretation

The process by which judges interpret the wording of a statute (law made by Parliament) to apply it to real-life scenarios.

Common Law

Law developed by judges through decisions in individual cases, as opposed to statutes enacted by legislatures.

Precedent

A legal decision or form of case law established by an earlier case that must be followed by lower courts in similar future cases.

Royal Assent

The formal approval given by the Governor General to a Bill passed by Parliament, making it an official law.

Abrogate

To repeal or annul a law or regulation.

Stare Decisis

The legal principle of adhering to precedent, meaning that courts must follow established case law in future cases.

Civil Law

The body of law dealing with the rights of private citizens, resolving disputes, and addressing grievances.

Criminal Law

The body of law that deals with crimes and their prosecution.

Magistrate

A civil officer who administers the law, especially by conducting court proceedings.

Hierarchy of Courts

The system that ranks courts from highest to lowest, affecting how legal precedent is applied.