Reasons for law reform

law reform

the process of constantly updating and changing the law so it remains relevant and effective

reasons for law reform

• changes in beliefs, values and attitudes

• changes in living conditions

• advances in technology

• a greater need for protection of the community

changes in beliefs, values and attitudes

• if the law is to remain relevant and acceptable to the majority of people, it must keep up with and reflect changes in beliefs, values and attitudes.

• on the other hand, rapid changes to the law which impose change before the community is willing to accept it, may be met with resistance.

• often community vales change as knowledge increases and society becomes more educated and aware, eg the health risks associated with smoking.

Changes in living conditions

• changes in social conditions

• changes in economic conditions

• changes in international conditions

changes in social conditions

• changes in life expectancy requires changes in law regarding healthcare, taxation and welfare payments

• changes in population size may lead to increased crime which requires changes to law enforcement

• other social changes prompting law reform include - binge drinking, domestic violence, online gambling

changes in economic conditions

• the gov needs to monitor laws that regulate buying, selling and production of goods and services

• changes in consumer trends and workforce dynamics require changes in industrial relations law, consumer rights law and more

changes in international conditions

• changing international circumstances or global events often influence law reform.

• This includes terrorists, as well as conflict which creates global refugees and puts pressure on supply of goods. The government could alter laws such as immigration and antiterrorism laws

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advances in technology

• as tech improves, laws must be put in place to regulate inventions and opportunities, as well as protect users.

• This includes cyber bullying, online scams and identity theft, which require regulations to prevent harm to individuals and businesses.

• scientific and medical advancements also require regulation, particularly the use of genetic data.

greater need for protection of the community

• law reform must continually occur to ensure individuals and different groups are protected and feel safe within the community.

• vulnerable groups, such as children, the disabled, those part of a minority have specific needs and rights that must be protected as well. Laws are therefore needed to ensure actions that may harm these members are illegal.