Law

Law is the branch of knowledge dealing with the rules of conduct that are established and enforced by a state authority. This branch of knowledge can be distinguished from the divine law of the Jewish or Mosaic code, which is attributed to God, and natural law, which is purported to be inherent in the natural order. (See: rule of law.)

There are several distinct legal traditions, and each jurisdiction has its own laws, but laws are often quite similar, arising from similar values and similar social, economic and political conditions. These laws typically differ less in their substantive content than in their jargon and procedures. The collective body of laws relating to one subject or emanating from one source are usually identified by specific reference. (E.g., Roman law, Common law, Criminal law.)

A society adopts specific laws to regulate the behavior of its members, to order life in its territory, and to resolve disputes. Moreover, the several different levels of government each produce their own laws, though the extent to which law is centralized varies. Thus, at any one place there can be conflicting laws in force at the local, regional, state, national, or international levels. (See: Conflict of laws.)

Legal systems and traditions

Common law -- Civil law -- Roman law -- International law -- European community law -- Socialist law -- Canon law

Legal subject areas

Constitutional law -- Criminal law -- Civil law -- Administrative law -- Evidence -- Jurisprudence -- Procedural law -- Private law -- Family law -- Labor law -- Corporations law -- Property law -- Human rights law -- Intellectual Property law -- Environmental law -- Land use -- consuetudinary law