Definitions of Law

Definitions of Law

Law

Law is a set of rules that govern behavior and are enforced by governmental and social institutions. It is an area of long-standing debate, with many describing law as an art and science. However, it has been defined broadly and in different ways across time. Here are some examples of different views of law. One definition describes it as “rules and regulations that govern behavior.” Another definition describes it as a “science of justice.”

Rule by general norms

The principle of rule by general norms aims to organize a social society based on common standards and rules. General norms are ideas that people have developed through social interaction. Some of these norms are universal, while others are specific to a particular group or situation. In any case, rule by general norms establishes an agreed-upon standard of value.

The principle of rule by general norms requires a court to act within the bounds of its reason. However, it is not always the best approach. Statesman argued that such rules should be used only when the evidence is insufficient to allow judges to discern expert opinion. In modern times, legal pragmatists have tended to place greater weight on judges’ insight and analogies to ancient precedents. A common example of a rule by general norms is a game’s rules. Such rules determine the proper language and behavior in the game.

Rule by neutral courts

The rule by neutral courts of law is a way of resolving a dispute by requiring the parties to submit their arguments to a neutral. This approach is common in Probate and Family Court and in Housing Court. The neutral is present during both stages of the case, helping the parties resolve their differences.

This neutrality in citation is not unique to lawyers; it may also be applicable to non-lawyers. Attorneys who are neutral are subject to the same rules of professional conduct as other attorneys. Those who act as neutrals in an alternative dispute-resolution process must follow the Rules of Professional Conduct. In addition, lawyers who represent clients in binding arbitration must follow Rule 4.1.

Rule by impartial judges

The rule by impartial judges in law is one of the pillars of a free and democratic constitutional order. It ensures that judges base their decisions on the facts and the applicable law without bias or preconceived notions. In addition, judges must refrain from making comments that may be perceived as promoting one party’s interests over another.

The United Nations has adopted several principles of judicial independence that are universally accepted by all member states. These principles cover independence of the Judiciary, freedom of expression and association, and the selection and training of judges. In addition, they also cover issues relating to professional secrecy and discipline. In this chapter, we examine selected case-law that relates to the principle of independence of the judiciary.