Basically, law is a set of rules that are enforced by governmental and social institutions. It serves to protect individual rights, maintain a status quo, and provide orderly social change.

Laws can be created by government or a group legislature. They can also be made by an executive or an authority. Typically, a legal professional is a person who passes a qualifying examination and has a Bachelor’s or Juris Doctor degree.

Common issues involving law include mortgages, bankruptcy, family law, immigration, and consumer rights. Law can also be used to protect minorities from oppression by majorities.

Legal systems are divided into three categories: common law, civil law, and international law. Typically, civil law legal systems are less detailed and require less judicial decisions. Common law legal systems are based on the doctrine of precedent, which means that decisions by higher courts bind lower courts.

International law is primarily governed by the International Court of Justice (ICCJ) or the World Court. It is the primary United Nations dispute settlement body. The Court has issued hundreds of judgments and advisory opinions. It also provides legal education resources.

The concept of “natural law” emerged in ancient Greek philosophy, but was revived in mainstream culture through the writings of Thomas Aquinas. In modern times, however, the concept has been challenged.

The International Law Commission was established by the General Assembly in 1947. The Commission promotes the progressive development of international law. It is composed of 34 members from the world’s principal legal systems. They serve in their individual capacity as experts on various aspects of international law. They consult with UN specialized agencies and promote the codification of international law.