Law is the set of rules governing human conduct, enforced by a state or other authority and backed up by sanctions if they are broken. It shapes politics, economics, history and society in many different ways. It may be created by a group legislature or individual legislator, resulting in statutes; by the executive through decrees and regulations; or by judges under the doctrine of stare decisis (Latin for ‘to stand by decisions’).
Legal systems vary widely and are broadly divided into civil and common law. Some have a religious basis such as the Jewish Halakha or Islamic Sharia, which provide additional rules through interpretation, Qiyas (reasoning by analogy), Ijma (consensus) and precedent. Others, including most continental European states, are based on Roman law or an ancient common law evolved through case law.
The practice of law involves advising clients on their rights and obligations, representing them in court or giving them advice and penalties for breaking the rules. The professions that deal with law are called lawyers, barristers and judges.
Law is the basis of all public order, allowing for commerce and a fair trial and making it possible to be safe in one’s home, school or work. It regulates the relationship between employers, employees and trade unions as well as the rules of civil and criminal procedure. It also relates to the environment, health and safety, taxation and insurance. Other areas of law include immigration, asylum and nationality.