Introduction to Law and Justice

Questions and Answers

What is the primary characteristic of the Rule of Law?

Laws must be followed voluntarily.

All persons and the government are subject to the law. (correct)

Laws can be ignored by citizens.

Laws apply only to the government.

What does state sovereignty refer to?

The ability of a state to influence international law.

The power of states to revise their constitutions.

The authority of a state over its territory and governance. (correct)

The right of individuals to challenge the law.

How is justice commonly interpreted?

As a strict application of laws without exceptions.

In terms of fairness, morality, and equality of rights. (correct)

Based solely on past legal precedents.

As subjective opinions of legal officials.

What does jurisprudence focus on?

Philosophical interpretations of law's nature and meaning. Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes laws that govern activities within a specific country?

Domestic Law Signup and view all the answers

What does the symbol of the scales in Lady Justice represent?

The necessity for evidence to be weighed fairly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of rights granted to individuals?

Rights mitigate the power of the government over individuals. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines equity within the legal system?

Promoting fairness and impartiality in justice. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a primary source of law?

Case law Signup and view all the answers

What is the main distinction between primary sources of law and secondary sources of law?

Primary sources form the foundation of law, while secondary sources are established laws. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a secondary source of law?

Statute law Signup and view all the answers

What does judicial independence ensure?

Judges are free from political influence. Signup and view all the answers

How did the British North America Act relate to Canadian law?

It established the unity of several British colonies into Canada. Signup and view all the answers

Which primary source of law is considered the most influential in shaping Canadian law?

Customs and conventions Signup and view all the answers

What does parliamentary supremacy entail?

Parliament has the ultimate authority to create and amend laws. Signup and view all the answers

Which concept describes the obligation to care for the land in the context of law?

Great binding law Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Law

A system of rules enforced by a country, with penalties for violations.
Laws are mandatory, requiring adherence by all citizens.

Jurisdiction

The legal authority to make decisions and judgments within a defined territory.

Justice

Based on principles of fairness, morality, and equality in rights.

The Rule of Law

A core principle stating that all individuals and the government are accountable to the law.
No one is above the law.

Constitutional Law

Encompasses both written and unwritten laws dictating the governance of a country.

Jurisprudence

The philosophical study of law's meaning, nature, and interpretation.

State Sovereignty

The exclusive authority of a state to govern its territory and apply laws without external interference.

Equity

The concept of fairness and impartiality in legal proceedings.

Right

A power or privilege that individuals hold, derived from constitutional, statutory, or judicial sources.
Rights enable participation in civil and political life without discrimination.

Freedom

The ability to act according to one's beliefs and conscience without coercion.

International Law

Governs legal relations between or among multiple countries.

Domestic Law

Regulates activities and behavior within a specific country.

Scales of Justice

Symbolize impartiality in weighing evidence.
Each side of a case must be evaluated fairly to achieve justice.

Blindfold of Justice

Represents impartial judgment, unaffected by appearances or biases.

Sword of Justice

Denotes the authority and power of the law to punish wrongdoing.

Influences on the Justice System

Law evolves like a tree, with roots drawing strength from various historical and social influences.

Primary Sources of Law

Include foundational elements that shape legal systems over time, emphasizing society's values:
- Religion & Morality
- Historical Influences
- Customs & Conventions
- Social & Political Philosophy

Secondary Sources of Law

Contemporary laws reflecting societal values, including:
- Constitutional Law
- Statute Law
- Case Law
- Legal Writings

Primary vs. Secondary Law

Primary law forms the foundation of the legal system; secondary law consists of enacted rules derived from those foundations.

Judicial Independence and Parliamentary Supremacy

Judicial Independence: Ensures judges can make unbiased decisions based on law and facts.
Parliamentary Supremacy: The courts interpret laws made by Parliament, affirming their authority over legislation.

British North America Act and Constitution Act, 1867

Established Canada through the British North America Act, 1867, uniting British colonies into a federal state, now recognized as the Constitution Act, 1867.

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Description

This quiz covers fundamental concepts of law, including jurisdiction, justice, and the rule of law. Test your understanding of constitutional law and how these principles apply to governance and society. Perfect for students seeking to grasp the basics of legal systems.