Kinds of Laws

Q. What are various kinds of laws? [10 marks - 2018]

Kinds of Laws

There are seven primary types of law that form the basis for the justice system. These seven types of laws are:

1. Constitution Law

2. Statutory Law

3. Common or Case Law

4. Civil Law

5. Criminal Law

6. Equity Law

7. Administrative Law

Constitution Law

Constitutional law forms the basis of the states legal system. It is the source of all other laws, rules and regulations of the nation.

Statutory Law

Statutory law, also known as legislative law, comprises written laws passed by legislative bodies. 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 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. 

Civil Law

Civil law governs the relationships and disputes between individuals or entities that do not involve criminal offences. 

Criminal Law

Criminal law deals with offences against society as a whole and establishes punishments for individuals who violate established laws.  Prosecution occurs when the state charges an individual or entity with a crime and if found guilty, the offender may face penalties as per the Penal Code.

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. 

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.