Module 1 Legal Terminology

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Law

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A system of rules created and enforced by governments to regulate behavior and maintain order.

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Justice

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The fair and impartial treatment of individuals under the law.

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Rule of Law

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The principle that all individuals, including government officials, are subject to and accountable under the law.

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Separation of Powers

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The division of government into three branches (legislative, executive, and judicial) to prevent any one branch from having too much power.

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Checks and Balances

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A system that ensures no single branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the actions of the others.

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Due Process

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The legal requirement that the government must respect all legal rights owed to a person, ensuring fair treatment through the judicial system.

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Equal Protection

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A constitutional principle that requires the government to treat individuals equally under the law, as stated in the 14th Amendment.

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Judicial Review

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The power of courts to review laws and government actions to determine their constitutionality (Marbury v. Madison).

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Precedent

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A legal decision or ruling that serves as an example or authority for future cases.

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Stare Decisis

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The principle that courts should follow established precedents when making decisions.