POLS 2300 Chapter Notes - Chapter 8: Decision-Making, Law Society, Napoleonic Code
6 Dec 2012
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Document Summary
Rule of law: the principle that individuals should be subject only to known, predictable, and impartial rules, rather than to arbitrary orders of those in governing positions. Those with authority are expected to act in keeping with the law. Requires that the courts be independent so that judges can be impartial in settling disputes without interference from government. Courts administer justice by applying laws and penalizing those who break the law, but also they are essential in interpreting the law and the constitution. Can be thought of as rules of behaviour concerning the relationships and disputes involving individuals, businesses, groups and the state. Public and private each of which involves various specific areas of law. Canadian constitution divides the authority to pass laws between parliament and provincial legislatures, with only a small number of areas in which both parliament and provincial legislatures have legislative power.
