Introduction to Law What are laws written to protect? How does a human right become a legal right?

What is Law? Law: The rules and regulations made and enforced by government that regulate the conduct of people within a society. Every society has a set of laws, either written or unwritten, without rule and order, there would be confusion and disorder. For a legal system to be effective, laws must be followed by all people. We call this “rule of law”. This means that all people, from average citizens to government leaders, have to abide by all laws. No one is above the law.

What should laws do? Laws are intended to do each of the following: Protect basic human rights Promote fairness Help resolve conflicts Promote order and stability Represent the will of the majority Protect the rights of the minority

Human Rights Human rights are rights individuals have just because they are human beings (inherent rights). The United Nations created a statement of basic human rights called the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) Almost every country in the world has signed it. It guarantees the following rights: Right to liberty Right to education Right to political freedom Right to religious freedom Right to economic well-being Right to freedom from torture Right to participate in the governmental process

Human Rights v. Legal Rights For human rights to actually be legal rights in the United States, there has to be a law written protecting them. Many of the rights listed in the UDHR are included in our Constitution, Bill of Rights, as well as federal, state, and local laws. Example: the right to an education is not guaranteed by Federal law. However, it’s guaranteed by the state constitution; therefore, it is the legal right of all children in NC to receive a free education. Example: people believe that the choice to marry whomever you choose is a human right. However, because there is no law protecting that right, it is not a legal right.

Legal Responsibilities Citizens must understand that in order to protect our legal rights, we have certain responsibilities. If we do not abide by these responsibilities, we risk having our rights revoked. Examples: Right: voting – Responsibility: being informed and politically active Right: Freedom of Religion – Responsibility: being tolerant of religions different from your own Right: Trial by Jury – Responsibility: willing to serve as a member of a jury

Rights and Responsibilities Activity You will be given a legal right of citizens. Consider the responsibilities associated with the right your group has been given. Create a poster that illustrates the responsibilities that you will share with your classmates. The poster should include all of the following: The Right The Responsibilities (3+) What consequences you could face if you are not responsible (concerning this right) (3+)