U1 AOS1 - Characteristics of an Effective Law

Question 1

Reflects society’s values

Answer 1

• A value is a belief, principle, or idea about the way we should behave and treat others, which is deemed important to uphold
• If the community accepts laws, members are more likely to follow it
• Major cause for law reform

Question 2

Enforceable

Answer 2

• If you don’t punish/reprimand those who break the law, people are less likely to follow it
• Those who break laws can be apprehended and charged in a criminal trial or sued in civil proceedings
• In Australia, the law is enforced by the courts, government bodies and the police

Question 3

Known

Answer 3

• The public must be aware of a law in order to follow it
• Ignorance of the law is no excuse
• Lawmakers must keep the public informed around reforms - usually reported/debated in the media
• Proceedings from the government are broadcast on TV and radio

Question 4

Clear and understood

Answer 4

• Legislative drafters write with a purpose in mind. Therefore, they must use precise and understandable language to both get their purpose across, as well as not confuse ordinary people
• If the law is ambiguous or full of jargon, people won’t follow it

Question 5

Stable

Answer 5

• Laws can’t constantly change or there will be confusion
• Lawmaking bodies should predict changes that may occur as tey make or change laws