Law: Definitions and Classifications

Law

The science of moral laws based on the rational nature of man, governing his free activity for the realization of his individual and social ends, demandable and reciprocal.

Expression of the sovereignty of the people

Law is the expression of the sovereignty of the people through duly constituted authority such as the legislature.

Elements of Law - 1

A rule of conduct.

Elements of Law - 2

Just.

Elements of Law - 3

Obligatory.

Elements of Law - 4

Promulgated by legal authority.

Elements of Law - 5

Enacted for common observance and benefit.

Substantive laws

Laws that grant rights and privileges.

Remedial laws

Laws responsible for enforcing or protecting substantive rights.

Public laws

Laws that deal with subjects of public nature, such as crimes.

Private laws

Laws that govern private transactions between parties.

Civil laws

Laws that deal with relationships between persons.

Political laws

Laws that deal with a person’s relationship with the government.

Prospectivity

Refers to laws that can only be applied after their effectivity date, also known as irretrospectivity.

Retroactivity

The application of a law even before its effectivity date.

Prospective vs. Retrospective laws

Prospective laws look forward while retrospective laws look backward.