Common Law, Statutory Law, and Administrative Law

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to Common Law, Statutory Law, and Administrative Law.

Common Law

Judge made law, established based on previous court decisions.

Stare Decisis

Let the decision stand; doctrine that courts follow precedents.

Precedent

An earlier case that established a rule for future similar cases.

Bystander Cases

Legal principle stating no duty to assist someone in peril unless the danger was created by one.

Statutory Law

Law enacted by a legislative body.

Bill

A proposed statute submitted to Congress or a state legislature.

Discrimination

Unjust treatment of different categories of people, often discussed in the context of legislation.

Statutory Interpretation

The process by which a court explains the meaning of legislation.

Congressional Override

The power of Congress to pass legislation despite a presidential veto.

Administrative Law

Law governing the activities of administrative agencies of government.

Enabling Legislation

The act of Congress that creates an administrative agency.

Rulemaking

The process by which administrative agencies create rules and regulations.

Subpoena

An order to appear at a particular time and place.

Subpoena Duces Tecum

A type of subpoena that requires the production of documents.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to review the actions of administrative agencies.

Freedom of Information Act

A law that gives the public the right to request access to records from any federal agency.