Law is a set of rules that are enforceable by social institutions. It serves as a mechanism for maintaining the status quo and maintaining the rights of individuals.

The term is also used to describe the people who work within the law system. A lawyer is a person who specializes in the practice of law.

In modern times, a lawyer must have a Bachelor of Laws or an SJD. This degree typically involves coursework in legal issues and passing a qualifying examination.

Common legal issues include immigration, housing, and money. There are also legal issues that are unexpected, such as an illness or sudden event.

Legal systems are divided into civil law, common law, and civil procedure. Civil law systems are shorter and less detailed than common law. They are based on judicial decisions, not abstract laws.

Common law systems are based on a doctrine of precedent, which means that a court’s decision will bind future court decisions. Another difference is that a case law is based on concrete facts, while a statute is written in an abstract manner.

Some of the more common legal systems include the US Uniform Commercial Code, which codifies common law commercial principles. Other systems are Soviet and Chinese law.

Law also plays an important role in the political landscape. An authoritarian government can oppress minority groups, while a liberal democracy can promote equality and freedom.

The legal field is regulated by the International Law Commission, a group of 34 members representing the world’s principal legal systems. The commission promotes progressive development of international law.