Often described as “the art of justice,” law is a set of rules that governmental institutions enforce. Law is found in virtually every aspect of society. In most cases, law is governed by government, but there are also private legal contracts.
A modern lawyer is generally required to have a Bachelor of Laws or Master of Laws degree. He or she must also pass a qualifying examination and receive a special qualification.
Law can be divided into three categories: property, agency and regulation. Property law covers rights relating to property, such as real and personal property. Property law also includes the rights of mortgages and mortgage agreements, covenants, and easements. Property law also includes commercial and tax law.
The legal system of a country can be divided into civil law and common law. Civil law systems are less complex, usually shorter, and require less judicial decision. Common law systems are distinguished from civil law systems by their explicit acknowledgment of the decisions made by the executive branch.
A modern lawyer must pass a qualifying examination and receive a Bachelor of Laws or Master of Civil Law. Common law systems also use the doctrine of precedent, which means that a decision made by a court binds future decisions.
The doctrine of precedent is also present in civil law systems. It means that a court’s decision is deemed to be a law, and is enforceable.
Law also serves as a mediator between people. It is based on social institutions and social structures.