Legal T1 - Intro to Law

Question 1

Define ‘common law’

Answer 1

Common law is the law made in court by judges

Question 2

Define ‘legislation’

Answer 2

Made in parliament

Question 3

Define 3 purposes of the law

Answer 3

1. That they provide a framework for conflict resolution (courts, trials)
2. Safety and protection of others and yourself
3. Reflect and communicate community values

Question 4

List the three things laws have above rules and customs

Answer 4

1. AUTHORITY - Parliaments authority to make the laws
2. CONSEQUENCES - Enforcements by courts and tribunals
3. REGULATION - Rules regulate the behaviour of all members

Question 5

Characteristics of an Effective law

Answer 5

1. Known and understandable
2. Adaptable
3. Stable and consistent
4. Capable of being enforced

Question 6

Define the Rule of Law

Answer 6

The concept is that the law rules over everyone - no one is above the law
1. That the people (including the government) should be ruled by the law and obey it
2. It should be that people are able and willing to be guided by it