Basic Legal Concepts Flashcards
(60 cards)
What is the primary purpose of law?
To maintain order, protect individual rights, and promote justice.
True or False: Customs can become legally binding if they are widely accepted and practiced.
True
Fill in the blank: The system of rules that a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members is known as _____.
law
What distinguishes law from mere customs?
Law is formally enacted and enforced by governmental authorities, while customs are traditional practices that may not have formal legal backing.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a source of law? A) Statutes B) Customs C) Personal beliefs D) Judicial decisions
C) Personal beliefs
Define ‘ethics’ in the context of law.
Ethics refers to the moral principles that govern a person’s behavior or the conducting of an activity, influencing legal standards.
True or False: Values are universal and do not change over time.
False
What is the relationship between law and morality?
Law often reflects moral values, but not all laws are based on moral principles.
Fill in the blank: The concept of justice is primarily concerned with fairness and _____.
equity
Multiple Choice: Which of the following best describes procedural justice? A) Fair processes B) Fair outcomes C) Fair laws D) Fair enforcement
A) Fair processes
What role do customs play in the development of law?
Customs can influence the formation of laws and may become codified as legal standards over time.
True or False: Legal systems are the same across all countries.
False
What is meant by the term ‘rule of law’?
The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the law that is fairly applied and enforced.
Fill in the blank: Laws are created by _____.
legislative bodies
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a legal consequence? A) Social ostracism B) Monetary fines C) Public opinion D) Moral judgment
B) Monetary fines
Define ‘justice’ in legal terms.
Justice refers to the administration of the law to ensure fairness and the protection of rights.
True or False: All ethical dilemmas have clear legal solutions.
False
What is the significance of legal ethics for lawyers?
Legal ethics guide lawyers in their conduct, ensuring professionalism and adherence to the law.
Fill in the blank: The concept of ____ is essential for the fair application of laws in society.
justice
Multiple Choice: Which concept emphasizes fairness in the law’s application? A) Legal positivism B) Natural law C) Distributive justice D) Retributive justice
C) Distributive justice
What is the role of ethics in shaping laws?
Ethics inform the creation of laws by reflecting societal values and moral standards.
True or False: Laws can be unjust.
True
What are ‘unwritten laws’?
Unwritten laws refer to customs and practices that are accepted as legal norms but are not formally codified.
Fill in the blank: The principle that individuals should be treated equally under the law is known as _____.
equality before the law