ENGLISH LAW Meaning and
Definition
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English law is a term that refers to the body of legal principles and precedents developed in England and Wales throughout history. It encompasses the laws, statutes, regulations, and legal traditions that are specific to these jurisdictions.
English law has a rich heritage, evolving from various sources over centuries. The foundation of the system lies in common law, which is a body of legal principles derived from judicial decisions and customs. Common law principles form the basis for judges' decisions and are used to interpret and apply statutes.
The English legal system is characterized by the doctrine of precedent, where previous court decisions become binding rules for future cases. This ensures consistency, predictability, and fairness in the application of the law.
English law covers a wide range of areas, including contract law, criminal law, property law, family law, and constitutional law, among others. It is also heavily influenced by European Union law, international treaties, and human rights conventions.
The authority responsible for the administration of English law is the judiciary, which consists of various courts and tribunals. These courts range from magistrates' courts for minor offenses to higher courts such as the Crown Court, Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court.
English law has had a significant impact worldwide, as it formed the basis for legal systems in many countries that were once under British rule. Moreover, it continues to influence and be influenced by international legal developments, making it a dynamic and versatile legal system.
Etymology of ENGLISH LAW
The term "English law" refers to the legal system of England and Wales. The etymology of the word can be analyzed as follows:
1. English: The word "English" stems from the Old English word "Englisc", which originally referred to the people and language of the Angles. The Angles were one of the Germanic tribes that settled in England during the 5th and 6th centuries. Over time, "English" came to denote the language and culture of the people of England.
2. Law: The word "law" can be traced back to the Old English word "lagu", which meant "customary rule" or "ordinance". It has Germanic and Old Norse roots, with similar words existing in other Germanic languages.
When combined, "English law" signifies the legal system that has developed in England over centuries, influenced by various historical events, customs, and legal traditions.
