Introduction to American Law

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the legal environment of business as outlined in the introduction to American law.

Jurisprudence

The study of law.

Common Law

A body of judge-made law developed from traditional customs over time.

Stare Decisis

A doctrine meaning 'let the law stand'; it provides stability and guidance by relying on prior judicial rulings.

Equity Courts

Courts that can issue a variety of remedies, such as injunctions, beyond just monetary compensation.

U.S. Constitution

The supreme law of the land, establishing the framework for the federal government and its relationship with state governments.

Federalism

The division of power between the federal government and state governments.

Legislative Statutes

Laws enacted by legislative bodies, such as Congress or state legislatures.

Administrative Agencies

Governmental bodies created to regulate specific areas of law, empowered to create regulations with the force of law.

Substantive Law

Laws that regulate rights and obligations, providing the rules that individuals must follow.

Procedural Law

The rules that govern the process of enforcing rights within the legal system.

Civil Law

Area of law dealing with disputes between individuals where compensation is sought.

Criminal Law

Laws that deal with wrongs committed against society, prosecuted by the government.

Natural Law Theory

The belief that the law should be based on morality and ethics according to human nature.

Analytical Law Theory

The idea that law is determined solely through logic, without regard for human emotions or social context.

Command or Ruling Class Theory

The view that law reflects the interests of the ruling political class.

Critical Legal Studies (CLS)

A movement suggesting law is a tool for social change, opposing individualism and capitalism.

Supremacy Clause

A constitutional provision asserting that the U.S. Constitution takes precedence over conflicting state laws.