About the law - what everyone should know

In today's world, the law affects our lives at every turn - from signing contracts to using social media to everyday shopping. This post aims to introduce you to the basic concepts that everyone should know.

1. What is law and why is it important?

The Dictionary of Polish Language defines law as:

1. the body of regulations governing human relations;

2. a precept, rule, point of regulation;

3. the science of legislation; the department of higher education dealing with this science;

4. authority, permission;

5. (usually in the plural) a rule concerning the world, nature, etc.

Law regulates everyday life - from personal relationships to business activities.

Law protects the rights of the individual.

Examples:

consumer rights (right to return goods, warranty, guarantee, withdrawal),

privacy rights (the notorious RODO).

2. Basic branches of law

Law can be divided by the relationship between subjects:

• public law - regulates relations between the state and the citizen and between state organs. E.g. constitutional law, administrative law, criminal law.

• private law - regulates relations between equal subjects. This is civil law, including commercial, family law.

• Civil law regulates relationships between individuals, such as contracts, property, inheritance.

• Criminal law deals with offences and penalties (misdemeanour law - offences).

• Administrative law deals with relationships between individuals and authorities.

*Other:

Labour law regulates the relationship between employees and employers (more public law, although the parties set the terms of the contract between them).

Tax law concerning the principle of taxation (more public law, although much depends on civil law).

Probably the most important piece of information I remember from ‘introduction to legal studies’ is that law and morality (or moral law) are different concepts, sometimes overlapping and sometimes completely distant.

3. Key terms to know

Contract

A statement of intent by at least two persons that imposes rights and obligations on the parties. The contract must have a specific effect.

Rights and obligations

Your legal position includes both the rights and obligations granted to you. Example: right to a break at work, duty to perform tasks conscientiously.

Court and process

Proceedings before the court are a key element of the legal system which, although it may be seen as outdated, still plays an important role.

4. Why is it important to know the basics of the law?

Knowing the basics of the law helps you to understand your rights and responsibilities in everyday life.

Examples of situations where knowledge of the law is useful:

• receipt of faulty goods,

• breach of contract by the other party,

• violation of your rights by state authorities (so-called authorities).

5. Summary

Basic legal knowledge is invaluable in everyday life.

I encourage you to explore the topic further - in future posts I will discuss tax law, civil law or employment law in detail.

Thank you for reading the post, and I'll see you in my next blog post ‘Lawyer in the Tricity’ blog!

Aleksandra