Seven Expectations of the legal system: Introduction to Law Seven Expectations of the legal system: Protect basic human rights Promote Fairness Help resolve conflicts Promote Order & stability Protect the environment Represent the will of the majority Protect the rights of minorities  

Basic Human Rights Political – freedom of speech, religion, press, voting Social – education, food, housing, healthcare Economic – own property, right to a job w/ safe working conditions Environmental – the right to a clean & safe environment

Law Purpose: Kinds of Laws Prevent or minimize conflict Provide means to resolve conflict   Kinds of Laws Criminal - Govt vs. defendant, public wrong, punishment (Felonies & misdemeanors) Civil – Private parties, plaintiff sues defendant, monetary damages, private rights

Types: Common – law created by judge’s rulings, these rules form precedents to be followed in similar cases (satre decisis) Statutory – law created by legislators Substantive – define conducts, which is legally prohibited and is subject to punishment. (murder, robbery, etc.) Procedural – rules by which substantive law is administered, rules governing the procedures by which crimes are investigated and prosecuted. (Due process, double jeopardy, self incrimination, search & seizure, Miranda)