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Simple English definitions for legal terms
rule of law
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A quick definition of rule of law:
Rule of law: The idea that everyone must follow the same laws and be treated fairly by those laws. This means that no one, not even people in power, can break the law without consequences. It also means that judges make decisions based on the law, not their personal feelings or opinions. The rule of law helps to ensure that everyone is treated equally and that society is fair and just.
A more thorough explanation:
The rule of law is a legal principle that has several meanings:
- It means that everyone is subject to the law, including the government.
- It means that the law is supreme, and no one is above it.
- It means that the law is clear, predictable, and applied equally to everyone.
- It means that legal decisions are based on established principles and precedents, rather than on the whims of individuals.
For example, under the rule of law:
- An employer is responsible for the actions of their employees while they are on the job.
- Citizens must respect the law and cannot act arbitrarily or outside of the law.
- Everyone within a jurisdiction is subject to the same laws, regardless of their status or position.
- Legal decisions are based on established principles and precedents, rather than on the personal opinions of judges or other officials.
The rule of law is important because it ensures that everyone is treated fairly and equally under the law. It also helps to prevent abuses of power by those in positions of authority, and it provides a stable and predictable legal environment for individuals and businesses to operate in.