Introduction to Law

Introduction to Law

• Law acts as a shield to every individual in the State, providing a legal framework for economic stability and development.
• Law provides accountability and limitations on governments.

Sources of Law

• The Constitution of Jordan serves as the supreme law of the land, providing a framework for the organization of the State and distribution of powers among its branches.
• Legislation (laws enacted by the Jordanian Parliament) covers various areas, including civil law, criminal law, commercial law, and administrative law.
• Islamic Law (Sharia) plays a significant role in matters relating to family law, personal status, and inheritance, with sources including the Quran, Hadith, and legal principles derived from Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh).
• Customary Law influences the legal system in rural areas and in matters not explicitly covered by law.
• International Treaties and Conventions can become sources of law within Jordan upon ratification and incorporation into domestic legislation.
• Judicial Precedent has some influence in Jordan's legal system, particularly in the interpretation and application of law.

Classifications of Law

Public and Private Law

• Public Law deals with the relationship between individuals and the State or government, including Tax Law, Administrative Law, and Criminal Law.
• Private Law (also known as Civil Law) regulates relationships between private individuals or entities, including Civil Law (contracts, torts, and sales), Companies Law, and Family Law.

Criminal and Civil Law

• Criminal Law addresses offenses against the State or society, including murder, theft, and fraud.
• Civil Law deals with disputes between individuals or entities, including breaches of contract, property disputes, and personal injury claims.

Substantive and Procedural Law

• Substantive Law establishes the rights and obligations of individuals and organizations, including Criminal Law, Contract Law, Civil Law, Companies Law, and Property Law.
• Procedural Law governs the process by which legal proceedings are conducted, including the Code of Civil Procedure, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Rules of Evidence.

International and Domestic Law

• International Law governs relationships between States and international organizations, as well as the conduct of individuals and companies in the international arena.
• Domestic Law relates to the legal system of a specific country or jurisdiction, including the Jordanian Constitution, the Jordanian Civil Law, and the Jordanian Criminal Law.