Legal Foundations and Sources of Law

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary terms related to legal foundations, business law, torts, and constitutional law, providing definitions that aid in understanding key legal concepts.

Law

A system of rules created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to regulate behavior and resolve disputes.

Business Law

Helps anticipate legal issues in transactions, avoid liability, and make informed decisions.

Equity

Principles allowing courts to apply fairness when legal remedies are inadequate.

Common Law

Law based on judicial decisions and precedent.

Statute

A written law passed by a legislative body.

Ordinance

Local laws (e.g., city or county regulations).

Public Law

Governs relationships between individuals and government.

Civil Law

Governs relationships between individuals (e.g., contracts, torts).

Precedent

Prior judicial decisions used to guide future cases.

Stare Decisis

Doctrine requiring courts to follow precedent.

Negligence

Failure to take proper care in doing something, leading to damage or injury.

Tort

A civil wrong causing harm.

Defective Product

A product that is unsafe or faulty, leading to liability.

Fraudulent Misrepresentation

Intentional deception made for personal gain.

Exclusionary Rule

A law that prohibits the use of illegally obtained evidence in court.

Commerce Clause

Constitutional provision granting broad power to regulate interstate commerce.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the United States Constitution.

Due Process Clause

Guarantees fair treatment through the judicial system.

Separation of Powers

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Constitutional Protections

Rights protected under the Constitution, ensuring fundamental freedoms.

Equitable Relief

Non-monetary remedies ordered by the court, such as injunctions or specific performance.