Introduction to the Law and Legal System of the United States

This text provides an introduction to U.S. law for law students, lawyers, and legal scholars from foreign countries, non-law graduate and undergraduate college students, and anyone else who seeks a big picture of the law and legal system. It explains the major substantive areas of the law in narrative form and includes citations to cases and sources for additional detail.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 1366 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2021
Publisher: West Academic Publishing

This comprehensive text serves as an invaluable introduction to the intricate realm of U.S. law, meticulously crafted to cater to a diverse audience, including law students, lawyers, legal scholars, non-law graduate and undergraduate college students, and anyone else seeking a comprehensive understanding of the legal system. Unlike traditional casebooks, it presents the major substantive areas of law in a narrative format, enriched with citations to relevant cases and sources for further exploration. Additionally, the book delves into essential foundational aspects, including the historical background, governmental structure, legal profession, adversary system of justice, and statutory interpretation and caselaw reasoning.

The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic composed of fifty states, a federal district, five major territories, and various minor islands. The country's legal system is based on the principles of common law, with the U.S. Constitution serving as the supreme law of the land. The federal government is divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial, each with distinct powers and responsibilities.

The Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances to ensure that each branch of government remains independent and accountable. The executive branch is headed by the President, who is responsible for enforcing laws and administering the government. The legislative branch consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, which together form the Congress. The judicial branch is composed of the Supreme Court and lower federal courts, which interpret and apply the Constitution and laws.

The United States legal system is known for its complexity and diversity. The country has a vast body of law, including federal statutes, state laws, and case law. Federal law is made by the Congress, while state law is made by state legislatures. Case law is developed by the courts through decisions made in individual cases.

The United States legal system is also known for its emphasis on individual rights and freedoms. The Constitution guarantees a wide range of rights, including freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights, which is part of the Constitution, further protects these rights.

The United States legal system is also known for its role in shaping the country's economic and social policies. The country has a complex regulatory framework, including environmental laws, labor laws, and consumer protection laws. The legal system also plays a significant role in protecting intellectual property rights and promoting innovation.

In conclusion, the United States legal system is a complex and multifaceted system that plays a critical role in shaping the country's political, economic, and social landscape. The system is based on the principles of common law, with the Constitution serving as the supreme law of the land. The federal government is divided into three branches, each with distinct powers and responsibilities. The United States legal system is known for its emphasis on individual rights and freedoms, its complex regulatory framework, and its role in shaping the country's economic and social policies.

Weight: 2190g
Dimension: 189 x 259 x 55 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781684675838
Edition number: 7 Revised edition