Law is a complex and multifaceted field that encompasses various branches and categories.
The legal system encompasses seven primary types of law that form the basis for our understanding and application of justice. The seven types of law are constitution (the supreme body of law), statutory law, common or case law, civil law, criminal law, equity law and administrative law.
Constitution Law
At the pinnacle of legal systems, constitutional law establishes the fundamental principles and rules that govern a nation or state. It defines the powers and limitations of different branches of government, safeguards individual rights and sets the framework for the legal system. A constitution serves as the supreme body of law, providing a foundation for all other laws within a jurisdiction.
Statutory Law
Statutory law, also known as legislative law, comprises written laws passed by legislative bodies such as parliaments or congresses. These laws are enacted to regulate society and cover a wide range of areas, including criminal offences, business regulations, tax laws and more. Statutory laws are codified and are binding upon all citizens within the jurisdiction.
Common or Case Law
Common law, also referred to as case law, is derived from judicial decisions made by courts and tribunals. It is based on precedents established through prior court rulings, which become binding on future cases with similar facts. Common law systems rely heavily on the principle of stare decisis, which means that courts adhere to previous decisions when deciding current cases. This type of law is prevalent in countries with a legal system rooted in English traditions, such as the United States, Canada and Australia.
Civil Law
Civil law governs the relationships and disputes between individuals or entities that do not involve criminal offences. It encompasses private matters, including contracts, property, family law, torts and more. Civil law is codified and relies on a comprehensive set of statutes, regulations and codes that outline the rights and obligations of the parties involved. In civil cases, the aim is to provide compensation or remedies to the affected parties rather than impose criminal sanctions.
Criminal Law
Criminal law deals with offences against society as a whole and establishes punishments for individuals who violate established laws. It encompasses crimes such as theft, assault, murder, fraud and other acts that are deemed harmful to public order and safety. Prosecution occurs when the state charges an individual or entity with a crime and if found guilty, the offender may face penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence.
Equity Law
Equity law operates alongside common law and aims to provide fairness and justice in cases where the application of strict legal rules may lead to unjust outcomes. Equitable remedies, such as injunctions, specific performance and constructive trusts, are issued by courts to prevent harm, enforce rights or provide remedies when monetary compensation is insufficient. Equity law is based on principles of fairness, conscience and the discretion of judges.
Administrative Law
Administrative law governs the actions and operations of administrative agencies, departments and other governmental bodies. It regulates the relationship between citizens and the state, ensuring that government actions are lawful, fair and transparent. Administrative law covers areas such as immigration, taxation, licensing, environmental regulations and social security. It provides a framework for the exercise of public power and allows individuals to challenge administrative decisions through judicial review.