Sources of Legal Authority

Ever wonder where all those rules and laws actually come from? It’s not just magic, you know. There’s a whole system behind it, and understanding it helps make sense of why things are the way they are. Think of it like the foundation of a house; you don’t always see it, but everything else rests on it. We’re going to break down the main sources of legal authority, so it’s a bit clearer.

Key Takeaways

• Laws come from different places, like constitutions, laws passed by lawmakers, and decisions made by judges.
• The constitution is usually the top law, and everything else has to follow it.
• When lawmakers create laws, that’s statutory law, and it covers a lot of what we do.
• Government agencies also make rules, and that’s administrative law.
• What judges decide in past cases can affect how current cases are handled, especially in common law systems.

Foundations Of Legal Authority

The Role of Law in Society

Law acts as the bedrock of any organized society, providing a framework for how people interact, resolve disagreements, and generally conduct themselves. It’s not just a set of rules; it’s the system that helps us understand what’s expected of us and what we can expect from others. Without a legal structure, society would likely descend into chaos, with disputes settled by force rather than fairness. Think about it – from traffic regulations to contracts for buying a house, law touches almost every aspect of our daily lives. It defines our rights and, just as importantly, our responsibilities. This system is established and maintained by official bodies, and its effectiveness hinges on the principle of the rule of law, which means everyone is subject to the law, and no one is above it. Understanding the basic role law plays is the first step to grasping how legal authority functions.

Sources of Legal Authority

Where does this legal authority actually come from? It’s not just one single place. Laws originate from a variety of sources, and knowing these helps us understand why a particular rule exists and how it’s applied. The most fundamental source is usually a constitution, which sets out the basic principles and structure of government. Then there are statutes, which are laws passed by legislative bodies like Congress or state legislatures. Administrative agencies also create rules and regulations, which have the force of law. And in many legal systems, especially those based on common law, judicial decisions – what we call precedent – also serve as a significant source of legal authority. These sources interact and sometimes even overlap, creating the complex legal landscape we navigate.

Here’s a quick look at the primary sources:

• Constitutions: The supreme law of the land, establishing government structure and fundamental rights.
• Statutes: Laws enacted by legislative bodies.
• Regulations: Rules created by administrative agencies to implement statutes.
• Case Law (Precedent): Decisions made by courts that interpret laws and set examples for future cases.

Types of Legal Systems

Legal systems aren’t uniform across the globe; they differ significantly in their structure and how they operate. The two most common types are common law and civil law systems. In common law systems, which are prevalent in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, judicial decisions and precedent play a very significant role in shaping the law. Courts interpret statutes and apply previous rulings to new cases, leading to a body of law that evolves over time. On the other hand, civil law systems, common in continental Europe and many other parts of the world, rely more heavily on comprehensive, codified statutes. While courts interpret these codes, their decisions typically don’t create binding precedent in the same way as in common law systems. Many countries also have mixed systems that blend elements of both. Understanding these different approaches is key to appreciating the global diversity of legal authority. Learn about legal systems.

Legal System Type	Primary Source of Law	Role of Judicial Decisions
Common Law	Judicial Precedent	Binding Precedent
Civil Law	Codified Statutes	Interpretive, not binding
Mixed Systems	Combination	Varies

Constitutional Law As Supreme Legal Authority

Constitutional law sits at the very top of the legal pyramid. It’s the foundational document that outlines how a government is structured, what powers it has, and, importantly, what limits are placed on those powers. Think of it as the ultimate rulebook for the country. This supreme legal authority ensures that all other laws and government actions must align with its principles. Without it, you’d have a chaotic system where different laws could contradict each other, and no one would know which one to follow.

Constitutional Supremacy

This idea means that the constitution is the highest law in the land. Any law passed by a legislature, or any action taken by an executive agency, that conflicts with the constitution is invalid. It’s a way to keep the government in check and prevent it from overstepping its bounds. This principle is what gives the constitution its power and makes it the ultimate source of legal authority.

Foundations of Constitutional Authority

Where does this authority come from? Primarily, it’s derived from the text of the constitution itself, often ratified by the people or their representatives. But it’s not just the words on the page. Judicial interpretation plays a huge role. Courts, especially higher ones, interpret what the constitution means in practice, and these interpretations become part of its authority. Foundational legal principles, like the idea of limited government, also underpin its power. It’s a living document, in a way, shaped by both its original text and how it’s applied over time. Understanding the structure of government is key to grasping this.

Sources of Constitutional Legal Authority

The primary sources are pretty straightforward: the constitution’s text and any amendments that have been added. Then, you have judicial precedent – previous court decisions that have interpreted constitutional provisions. These rulings set a standard for future cases. There are also various interpretive doctrines that courts use to figure out the constitution’s meaning. These doctrines can range from looking at the plain meaning of the words to considering the original intent of the framers or how society has evolved. It’s a complex mix that gives constitutional law its depth and authority.

Statutory Law And Legislative Authority

Enacted Laws by Legislative Bodies

Statutory law represents the written rules created by elected representatives in legislative bodies, like Congress or state legislatures. These laws are the backbone of our legal system, covering a vast array of topics from criminal offenses to civil rights and everyday commercial activities. When a bill successfully passes through the legislative process and is signed into law, it becomes a statute. These statutes are then compiled into official codes, making them accessible and organized. The sheer volume and scope of statutory law mean it directly impacts nearly every aspect of our lives. Think about traffic laws, tax regulations, or even the rules governing how businesses operate – these are all products of legislative action.

Governing Criminal Offenses and Civil Rights

Legislatures are primarily responsible for defining what constitutes a crime and what penalties apply. This includes everything from minor infractions to serious felonies. Statutes clearly outline prohibited conduct and the consequences for violating these rules. Simultaneously, statutory law is a major vehicle for protecting civil rights. Laws are enacted to prevent discrimination based on race, religion, gender, and other protected characteristics, and to provide remedies when these rights are violated. For example, laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 were passed by Congress to address widespread discrimination.

Regulatory Compliance Through Statutes

Beyond criminal and civil matters, statutes often grant authority to government agencies to create and enforce more detailed regulations. These regulations, while issued by agencies, are rooted in the authority granted by statutes passed by the legislature. This allows for specialized rules to be developed in areas like environmental protection, workplace safety, or financial markets. Businesses and individuals must understand and comply with these statutes and the regulations derived from them to avoid penalties. Failure to comply can lead to fines, legal action, or other sanctions.

Here’s a look at how statutes are structured:

• Public Laws: These are statutes enacted by the federal government that affect the general public. They are often identified by a public law number (e.g., P.L. 117-103).
• Private Laws: These statutes are enacted for the benefit of a specific individual or entity, though they are less common.
• Codification: Statutes are organized into codes, such as the United States Code (U.S.C.) at the federal level, or state-specific codes. This makes them easier to find and reference.

The process of creating statutory law involves debate, amendment, and voting within legislative chambers. It’s a public process designed to reflect the will of the people, though the specifics can become quite complex. Understanding the intent behind a statute, as well as its precise wording, is key to its application.

Administrative Law And Agency Authority

Governing Government Agency Actions

Government agencies are a huge part of how things get done these days. Think about the agencies that handle environmental protection, food safety, or even how you get your driver’s license. These bodies aren’t just making suggestions; they’re creating rules that have the power of law. Legislatures pass broad laws, and then they delegate the job of figuring out the nitty-gritty details to these agencies. It’s a way to manage complex issues that require specialized knowledge. This delegation of power is a cornerstone of administrative law. It allows for more responsive and informed regulation, but it also means these agencies have significant authority over individuals and businesses.

Rulemaking and Enforcement Authority

Agencies have two main jobs: making rules and enforcing them. Rulemaking is how they translate the general laws passed by Congress or state legislatures into specific requirements. This usually involves a public process where people can comment on proposed rules. Once rules are in place, agencies have the authority to make sure people and businesses are following them. This can involve inspections, investigations, and, if necessary, taking action against those who aren’t in compliance. The goal is to protect the public interest, whether that’s ensuring clean air or safe workplaces. It’s a big responsibility, and agencies have to follow specific procedures to do it right.

Challenging Agency Decisions

What happens if you disagree with an agency’s decision or a rule they’ve put in place? You usually have options. First, there’s often an administrative process where you can appeal the decision within the agency itself. This might involve a hearing where you can present your case. If you’re still not satisfied, you can often take the matter to court. Courts can review agency actions to make sure they followed the law, acted within their authority, and made reasonable decisions. This judicial review is a key safeguard, preventing agencies from overstepping their bounds or acting unfairly. It’s important to know that agency actions are subject to this kind of scrutiny.

Here’s a look at the typical process for challenging an agency decision:

• Internal Agency Appeal: Start by filing an appeal within the agency that made the decision.
• Administrative Hearing: Present your case before an administrative law judge or a review board.
• Judicial Review: If unsatisfied, you can seek review in a court of law.

The authority granted to administrative agencies is significant, but it is not unlimited. It is carefully structured by statutes and subject to oversight to balance effective governance with individual rights and due process.

Judicial Decisions And Precedent

When we talk about law, it’s not just about the books filled with statutes or the big documents like the Constitution. A huge part of how law actually works comes from decisions made by judges in courts. These decisions, often called case law, build up over time and create something called precedent. Think of it like a trail of breadcrumbs; each decision guides future judges when they face similar situations.

Common Law Development Through Precedent

In many legal systems, especially those based on common law, precedent is super important. When a higher court makes a ruling, lower courts in the same jurisdiction usually have to follow it. This isn’t just about making things easier for judges; it’s about fairness and predictability. People should know that if they’re in a situation similar to one that’s already been decided, the outcome will likely be the same. This consistency helps maintain trust in the legal system. Over time, these decisions refine how laws are understood and applied, allowing the law to adapt to new circumstances without needing a new law to be written every single time. It’s a way the law can evolve organically.

Judicial Interpretation of Statutes

Judges don’t just look at old cases; they also have to figure out what laws passed by legislatures actually mean. Sometimes, the wording of a statute can be a bit unclear, or it might not seem to cover a new situation that’s come up. That’s where judicial interpretation comes in. Judges look at the words themselves, what the lawmakers probably intended when they wrote the law, and how similar laws have been interpreted before. This process can significantly shape how a statute is applied in practice. It’s a bit like deciphering a complex puzzle, and the judge’s interpretation becomes part of the legal landscape.

Binding Precedent in Legal Authority

Not all precedents are created equal, though. Binding precedent is a decision from a higher court that a lower court must follow. If a state’s supreme court rules on a specific issue, all the trial courts and intermediate appellate courts in that state have to apply that ruling. On the other hand, there’s also persuasive precedent. This comes from courts in other jurisdictions or from lower courts, and while it’s not mandatory, a judge might find it convincing and choose to follow it. Understanding the hierarchy of courts and the nature of precedent is key to grasping how legal authority functions on a day-to-day basis. It’s how we get a consistent application of the law across different cases and even different courts. You can find more about the foundations of law and legal systems here.

Here’s a quick look at how precedent works:

• Higher Court Decision: A case is heard and decided by a court.
• Establishment of Precedent: The ruling sets a standard for future similar cases.
• Lower Court Application: Subsequent cases with similar facts in lower courts must follow this precedent.
• Overruling or Modification: Higher courts can later overturn or modify their own previous decisions, creating new precedent.

The development of law through judicial decisions is a dynamic process. It ensures that legal principles remain relevant and adaptable to the changing needs of society, while also providing a degree of certainty and fairness in legal outcomes. This ongoing dialogue between past rulings and present disputes is what gives the common law its enduring strength. It’s how the law stays alive and useful.

Understanding Legal Rights And Duties

Entitlements Granted by Law

At its core, law is about defining what people are allowed to do and what they can expect from others and from the government. These entitlements, or rights, are essentially protections and freedoms that the legal system recognizes and upholds. Think of them as the baseline of what you’re guaranteed. These aren’t just abstract ideas; they have real-world consequences. For instance, your right to free speech means you can express your opinions without fear of government reprisal, within certain limits, of course. Similarly, property rights mean you have a legal claim to your possessions and land, and others can’t just take them. These rights can come from different places. Some are laid out in the Constitution, like the right to due process. Others are established through laws passed by legislatures, such as the right to a minimum wage. Even contracts you sign create specific rights between you and the other party involved.

Legal Obligations and Responsibilities

Just as the law grants rights, it also imposes duties and obligations. These are the things you are required to do, or not do, to avoid breaking the law. It’s the flip side of rights. If you have a right to be free from harm, others have a duty not to harm you. These obligations can be quite varied. You have a duty to obey traffic laws when you’re driving, a duty to pay your taxes, and a duty to fulfill the terms of any contracts you enter into. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to legal trouble, ranging from fines to more serious penalties. It’s all about maintaining order and ensuring that everyone’s rights are respected by others.

Enforcement Mechanisms for Rights

So, what happens when your rights are violated or you fail to meet your duties? That’s where enforcement mechanisms come in. The legal system has several ways to make sure laws are followed and that there are consequences for breaking them. Courts are a primary mechanism; you can sue someone if they’ve wronged you, or the government can prosecute someone for a crime. Administrative agencies also play a big role, especially in areas like environmental protection or workplace safety, where they can investigate violations and impose penalties. Sometimes, it’s about getting a court order to stop someone from doing something harmful (an injunction) or to make them pay for damages they’ve caused. These enforcement tools are what give legal rights and duties their real power. Without them, laws would just be suggestions.

Here’s a quick look at common types of legal rights:

• Constitutional Rights: These are the most fundamental rights, often related to personal freedoms and protections against government overreach (e.g., freedom of speech, right to a fair trial).
• Statutory Rights: These are rights created by laws passed by legislatures, covering areas like employment, consumer protection, and housing.
• Contractual Rights: These arise from agreements between parties and define what each party is entitled to receive or do under the terms of the contract.
• Property Rights: These concern ownership and use of real estate and personal belongings.

And here are some common legal duties:

• Duty of Care: In many situations, you have a legal duty to act reasonably to avoid causing harm to others (e.g., drivers on the road).
• Contractual Duties: The obligations you agree to fulfill when you enter into a contract.
• Duty to Obey Laws: A general obligation to follow all applicable statutes and regulations.
• Duty to Pay Taxes: The legal requirement to contribute to public services through taxation.

Understanding the interplay between your rights and your obligations is key to navigating the legal landscape. It’s not just about knowing what you’re entitled to, but also about recognizing your responsibilities to others and to society as a whole. This balance is what keeps our legal system functioning and fair.

The Rule Of Law And Legal Authority

The rule of law is a concept that underpins how legal authority functions in any organized society. It’s not just about having laws; it’s about how those laws are created, applied, and enforced. At its core, the rule of law means that everyone, including the government itself, is subject to and accountable under the law. This principle is what gives legal authority its legitimacy and prevents it from becoming arbitrary or oppressive. Without it, laws are just suggestions, and power can be wielded without restraint.

Equal Application of Laws

One of the most important aspects of the rule of law is that laws should apply equally to everyone. This means no one is above the law, regardless of their status, wealth, or position. Whether you’re a private citizen or a public official, the legal standards are the same. This principle is a cornerstone of fairness and prevents the development of a system where certain individuals or groups are exempt from legal consequences. It’s about creating a level playing field where legal rights and responsibilities are consistent for all.

Consistent Enforcement of Legal Authority

Beyond just having equal laws, the rule of law also demands that these laws be enforced consistently. This means that similar cases should be treated similarly, and enforcement shouldn’t depend on who you know or what your connections are. Predictability in enforcement is key. When people know that laws will be applied fairly and consistently, they are more likely to trust the legal system and comply with its requirements. This consistency helps maintain social order and provides a stable environment for individuals and businesses to operate within. It’s a vital part of how legal authority is respected in a legal system.

Limiting Arbitrary Power

Ultimately, the rule of law serves as a critical check on arbitrary power. It establishes clear boundaries for what government officials and institutions can and cannot do. By requiring that actions be based on established laws and procedures, it prevents rulers from acting on whims or personal biases. This limitation is essential for protecting individual liberties and ensuring that power is exercised responsibly. It means that government actions must have a legal basis, and citizens have recourse if those actions exceed legal authority. This framework is what allows for constitutional supremacy to function effectively, ensuring that even the highest levels of government operate within defined limits.

Court Systems And Jurisdictional Authority

When a legal issue arises, it’s not just any court that can hear the case. That’s where the concepts of court systems and jurisdictional authority come into play. Think of it like this: different tools are needed for different jobs, and similarly, different courts have specific powers to handle certain types of disputes. Understanding this structure is key to knowing where and how a legal matter can be addressed.

Trial and Appellate Court Structures

Most legal systems have a tiered structure. At the bottom, you have trial courts. These are where cases begin. Evidence is presented, witnesses testify, and a judge or jury makes initial decisions about the facts and the law. It’s the ground floor of the legal process. If a party isn’t happy with the outcome of a trial court, they often have the option to appeal.

Appellate courts don’t retry the case. Instead, they review the trial court’s proceedings to see if any legal errors were made. They look at transcripts, briefs from the lawyers, and sometimes hear arguments. Their job is to ensure the law was applied correctly. The decisions made by appellate courts can set important legal standards.

Courts of Last Resort

At the very top of the judicial pyramid sit the courts of last resort. In the United States, this is typically the Supreme Court. These courts have the final say on legal matters within their jurisdiction. They usually hear cases that involve significant legal questions, often those that have been decided differently by lower appellate courts or that interpret constitutional issues. Their rulings are binding on all lower courts.

Determining Court Authority

So, how do we know which court has the power to hear a case? This is determined by jurisdiction. There are a few main types:

• Subject Matter Jurisdiction: This refers to the court’s authority over the type of case. For example, a family court can hear divorce cases, but not a bankruptcy case. A federal court can hear cases involving federal law, while a state court handles state law matters.
• Personal Jurisdiction: This is the court’s power over the parties involved in the lawsuit. Generally, a court has personal jurisdiction over individuals or entities within its geographic area or those who have sufficient connections to it.
• Venue: This deals with the specific geographic location within a jurisdiction where a case should be heard. It’s about picking the most appropriate county or district.

Without proper jurisdiction, a court cannot legally hear a case, and any decision it makes would be invalid. It’s a foundational aspect of legal proceedings.

The structure of court systems, from trial courts to appellate bodies and courts of last resort, is designed to provide a systematic and fair process for resolving disputes. Each level has a distinct role, contributing to the overall administration of justice and the consistent application of law across a jurisdiction.

Legal Interpretation And Application

Laws don’t just appear out of thin air and then magically apply themselves. Someone has to figure out what they actually mean, especially when things get complicated. That’s where legal interpretation comes in. It’s the process of figuring out the meaning and intent behind a law, and how it should be applied to a specific situation. Think of it like deciphering a complex instruction manual – sometimes the words are clear, and sometimes you need to read between the lines.

Judicial Interpretation Techniques

Judges are often the ones doing the heavy lifting when it comes to interpreting laws. They have a few tools in their belt to figure things out. One common approach is textualism, which means sticking strictly to the plain meaning of the words in the law. If the statute says "no vehicles in the park," a textualist judge would likely stop a car, a bike, and maybe even a skateboard. Then there’s purposivism, where judges try to figure out the overall goal or purpose the law was trying to achieve. So, for that "no vehicles" rule, a purposivist might consider if the goal was to keep the peace and quiet, and maybe allow a child’s toy car but not a noisy motorcycle. They also look at past court decisions, known as precedent, to see how similar laws have been interpreted before. It’s a bit like following a recipe that’s been tested and tweaked over time.

Legislative Intent in Legal Authority

Beyond just the words on the page, courts often try to understand what the lawmakers were thinking when they passed a law. This is called legislative intent. It’s not always easy to pin down, because lawmakers might have had different ideas, or the law might have been written a long time ago. Sometimes, lawmakers leave clues, like committee reports or statements made during debates. Figuring out this intent helps ensure that the law is applied in a way that reflects what the legislature originally wanted. It’s a way to keep the law aligned with its original purpose, even as society changes. Understanding legislative intent can be key to how a law is applied.

Policy Considerations in Interpretation

Finally, judges don’t operate in a vacuum. When they interpret laws, they also have to think about the broader consequences – the policy implications. How will their interpretation affect society? Will it create unintended problems? Will it promote fairness or justice? This involves looking at the practical effects of applying a law in a certain way. For example, if a judge is interpreting a new environmental regulation, they might consider the impact on local businesses, public health, and conservation efforts. It’s about balancing different interests to arrive at a decision that serves the public good as much as possible. This aspect of interpretation acknowledges that laws exist within a larger social and economic context.

Enforcement And Compliance Mechanisms

So, we’ve talked about all these laws, right? Constitutions, statutes, court decisions – they’re all important. But what happens if people just ignore them? That’s where enforcement and compliance mechanisms come in. Think of them as the gears that keep the whole legal machine running. Without them, laws would just be suggestions, and that wouldn’t work for anyone.

Law Enforcement Agencies

These are probably the most visible part of the system. Police officers, sheriffs’ deputies, federal agents – they’re the ones who investigate crimes, make arrests, and generally keep the peace. They’re the first line of defense when a law is broken. It’s not just about catching bad guys, though. They also have a role in making sure people follow traffic laws, noise ordinances, and all sorts of other rules that keep our communities functioning smoothly. It’s a tough job, and they have a lot of responsibility.

Regulatory Body Enforcement

Beyond the police, there are tons of government agencies that oversee specific areas. Think about the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) making sure companies don’t pollute, or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) checking that our food and medicine are safe. These agencies have their own enforcement powers. They can issue fines, revoke licenses, and even shut down businesses if they aren’t following the rules. It’s a way to handle complex issues that require specialized knowledge.

Here’s a quick look at some common enforcement actions:

• Inspections: Agencies regularly check facilities and operations.
• Investigations: Looking into complaints or suspected violations.
• Fines and Penalties: Monetary sanctions for non-compliance.
• Cease and Desist Orders: Requiring a party to stop an illegal activity.
• License Suspension or Revocation: Taking away the right to operate.

Judicial Enforcement of Legal Authority

Ultimately, the courts are the final arbiters. If someone breaks a law, and it leads to a dispute or a crime, it often ends up in court. Judges issue orders, and if those orders aren’t followed, the court can hold people in contempt. This can lead to fines or even jail time. Courts also enforce civil judgments, meaning if someone owes money or has to do something as part of a lawsuit, the court can step in to make sure it happens. It’s the court’s power that gives teeth to the laws and ensures that people can’t just ignore legal obligations.

The effectiveness of any legal system hinges on its ability to enforce its rules. Without clear and consistent enforcement, laws lose their authority and their purpose of maintaining order and protecting rights is undermined. This involves a coordinated effort across different branches of government and various agencies, all working to uphold the established legal framework.

Wrapping Up Our Look at Legal Authority

So, we’ve gone over a lot of ground when it comes to where laws come from and how they work. It’s pretty clear that the legal system isn’t just one thing; it’s a whole mix of rules, decisions, and traditions. From the big ideas in constitutions to the specific details in statutes and how courts interpret everything, it all fits together. Understanding these different sources helps make sense of why things are the way they are and how legal issues get sorted out. It’s a complex system, for sure, but knowing the basics of where legal authority comes from is a good start for anyone trying to figure it all out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is law and why do we need it?

Think of law as a set of rules that everyone in a community must follow. These rules help keep things fair, settle disagreements peacefully, and make sure society runs smoothly. Without laws, it would be much harder to know what’s expected of us or how to handle problems.

Where do laws come from?

Laws come from several places. The most important is usually the Constitution, which is like the rulebook for the country. Then there are laws made by elected officials (like Congress or Parliament), rules created by government agencies, and decisions made by judges in court cases. Sometimes, long-standing traditions also become laws.

What’s the difference between different types of legal systems?

Globally, there are different ways legal systems work. Some, like in the United States and England, rely a lot on past court decisions (called common law). Others, common in Europe and South America, focus more on detailed written laws called codes (civil law). Some places mix these ideas, and others might use religious laws.

What is constitutional law?

Constitutional law is the boss of all other laws. It sets up how the government is organized, divides power between different parts of the government, and protects the basic rights of people. If any other law goes against the Constitution, it’s not valid.

What are statutes and who makes them?

Statutes are laws that are written down and passed by lawmakers, like your senators or representatives. These laws cover a huge range of things, from traffic rules and criminal offenses to how businesses should operate and what rights people have.

How do government agencies make rules?

Government agencies, like the Environmental Protection Agency or the Food and Drug Administration, are given power by laws passed by Congress to create more detailed rules. These rules help put the bigger laws into action. People can usually give feedback on these rules before they are finalized.

What is precedent and why is it important?

Precedent means that judges should follow the decisions made in similar past cases. This helps make sure that the law is applied fairly and consistently. It’s like saying, ‘We’ve handled a similar situation before, and here’s how we decided, so we’ll stick with that.’ This makes the law more predictable.

What does ‘rule of law’ mean?

The rule of law means that everyone, including the government itself, has to follow the law. No one is above the law, and the laws should be applied fairly and consistently to everyone. It’s a key idea for preventing unfairness and keeping power in check.