Law is the system of rules that a community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members. It involves the concepts of justice, fairness and morality as well as social restriction and power struggles. It covers a broad spectrum of activities, from preventing crime to regulating business transactions and protecting rights. Laws are made by governments, and different countries have varying laws.

A legal education enables a person to become a lawyer or judge. The field of law encompasses a variety of professions that involve counseling clients about their rights, representing them in court and making decisions and punishments. The study of law also includes theories and debates about the nature and purpose of laws.

The most basic function of law is to establish standards, maintain order, resolve disputes and protect liberties and rights. The nature of a government’s authority to make and enforce law is an important factor in determining how well a country serves these purposes. For example, an authoritarian regime may keep the peace and maintain the status quo, but it is likely to oppress minorities and restrict freedoms. The ability of people to rise up and challenge a government’s authority is an essential part of a democratic system of law.

Some of the major branches of law include contract, property and employment law. Contract law regulates agreements to exchange goods and services. This includes everything from purchasing a bus ticket to trading options on the stock market. Property law defines people’s ownership and duties toward tangible property, including land (real estate), as well as personal possessions such as computers, books and jewelry.

Employment law focuses on the relationship between a worker, employer and trade union. It includes such issues as wage and hour regulations, discrimination and collective bargaining.

Constitutional law addresses the fundamental principles of a nation’s government, such as the separation of powers between its branches. It can also include the interpretation of a country’s laws.

Tort law helps people who have been hurt by others’ actions. It provides a way for them to claim compensation, usually in the form of money. Intellectual property law (IP) protects the rights of people over things they create, such as art, music and literature. It can also cover the names of companies, trademarks and logos. Corporate law includes the regulation of business organizations. Biolaw is the intersection of law and the life sciences.