The Legal System: Basic Legal Concepts

These flashcards cover key concepts in the legal system, focusing on terms and definitions related to laws, justice, and legal processes.

Law

A dynamic and complex mechanism, consisting of rules or procedures established within a particular society to regulate actions.

Just Laws

Laws that are enforceable, acceptable to most citizens, known to all, current, and based on the principle of equality.

Procedural Fairness

A fundamental principle ensuring fair and just procedures in legal decisions, involving the right to be heard and impartial treatment.

Rule of Law

The principle that everyone is subject to the law, ensuring that no one is above the law and that laws are clear and consistent.

Anarchy

The absence of effective government or law, often resulting in a state of lawlessness.

Tyranny

Oppressive governance concentrated in one person or group, leading to the suppression of opposition and the disregard of citizens' rights.

Common Law

Law developed by judges through decisions in individual cases, based on precedents.

Statute Law

Written laws enacted by a legislative body, such as parliament.

Delegated Legislation

Laws made by authorities or persons to whom parliament has delegated its legislative powers.

Court Hierarchy

The structured system of courts organized by their jurisdiction, where higher courts can review cases from lower courts.