Law is a set of rules created by the state that form a framework to ensure a peaceful society. If these laws are broken, sanctions can be imposed. It can also be referred to as the system of courts in which these laws are put into effect. A career in law is increasingly appealing to young people.
The precise nature of law is a matter of longstanding debate, with numerous books on the subject having been written. However, the most commonly accepted definition of law is that it is a set of rules that individuals must follow, and that those who fail to do so may be punished. This definition has a number of sub-definitions, the most important being that it defines a system of commands that a sovereign authority issues to its subjects, and which must be obeyed. The precise way in which this power is exercised is another source of controversy – with debates about, for example, whether or not judges should be above politics, and how much they can use their own sense of right and wrong when making decisions.
There are a variety of different legal systems and laws across the globe. These differ in their emphasis, structure and organization. Despite these differences, however, there are a number of commonalities. For example, most legal systems place a strong emphasis on the principle of equality before the law. This is in part due to the fact that it enables a fairer and more transparent decision-making process, and also because it helps to avoid unfair discrimination and protect individual rights.
In addition, there are a variety of specialisations within the field of law. Labour law, for example, involves the regulation of industrial relationships between workers and employers (and trade unions), whilst criminal law is concerned with punishments for certain crimes. Aviation law covers regulations and standards relating to the operation of aircraft, which are often aligned with those of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Other areas of law include administrative law, a type of legislation that is not enforced through the courts; intellectual property law, which governs how inventions are protected and owned; and family law, which includes laws governing marriage, divorce and child custody. Other important laws are those relating to land reform, the military and war, and human rights.