Law is a system of rules that governs and regulates people’s interactions. It covers a broad range of topics, such as contract law (which defines agreements between people that exchange goods or services), property law (which establishes people’s rights and duties toward tangible things, including land and buildings) and intellectual property law (which protects inventions, ideas, and other creative work).
Legal systems can serve many purposes, such as maintaining peace and the status quo, protecting individual rights, preserving minority interests against majority opinion, and fostering social change. Different laws and governing structures can achieve these goals differently. For example, a nation ruled by an authoritarian regime may keep the peace and preserve the status quo, but it may also oppress minorities or political opponents.
One characteristic of a law is that it must be objective in its application. A rule must be enforceable and fair, and it must treat all persons equally. The Bible states that God is the judge of all, and he “showeth no partiality.” For this reason, a judge’s ruling cannot be influenced by his or her personal views or beliefs.
The courts play an important role in maintaining the rule of law by hearing the grievances of those whose rights have been violated. They can also bolster the esteem in which a government is held by exhibiting an unwavering respect for the rule of law. For instance, a Supreme Court decision that overturned Obama-era administrative guidance on social inclusion was based partly on the principle of equal treatment under the law.