Law shapes politics, economics, history and society in various ways and serves as a mediator of relations between people. Its principal functions are to establish standards, maintain order, resolve disputes and protect liberties and rights.
Generally, laws are made by a government and enforced by a controlling authority. However, it is possible to create or enforce legal systems that are independent of governments. In such cases, the governing authority is often a body of judges or juries who interpret and apply the rules.
The most commonly used legal systems are civil law jurisdictions and common law systems. In civil law jurisdictions, the laws are codified and consolidated by legislatures. In common law systems, judge-made precedent is recognized as the basis of law.
Legal education, training and qualifications for lawyers vary by jurisdiction. Modern lawyers obtain distinct professional identity by passing a qualifying examination, completing a legal degree and gaining admission to a bar association or law society.
Property law deals with people’s ownership of land and their possessions (real property) and intangible assets, such as bank accounts and shares of stock. It involves mortgages, rental agreements, licences, covenants and easements, as well as statutory systems for land registration.
A research paper for a law course should explore a topic that is relevant to the field, and is of current interest to the student. This will make the research process more fun and engaging, as well as provide the opportunity to learn more about a subject.