laws

Law is a system of rules created and enforced by political authority to govern society. Laws regulate conduct, establish rights and obligations, and provide mechanisms for resolving disputes. They are binding on individuals and institutions within a jurisdiction and are backed by penalties or remedies when violated.

Substantive law defines legal rights and duties, such as crimes, contracts, property, and family relationships. Procedural law sets out the processes by which laws are enforced, including how courts hear cases and how evidence is gathered. Criminal law punishes offenses; civil law resolves private disputes; administrative law governs government actions.

Law derives from multiple sources. Constitutions establish the framework of government and fundamental rights. Statutes enacted by legislatures detail rules on specific subjects. Case law or precedent interprets statutes and develops common law. Administrative regulations implement statutes, and treaties bind states in international contexts. Legal systems may be organized as common law, civil law, or religious or mixed systems.

Enforcement occurs through courts, police, and other agencies. Judges interpret laws, decide disputes, and issue remedies such as damages, injunctions, or imprisonment. The legal process emphasizes formal rules, fairness, and due process, including notice, opportunity to be heard, and equality before the law. Laws evolve to reflect changing social values and technological developments.