72. statute

What is a Statute?

A statute is a formal written law enacted by a legislative body, such as Congress or a state legislature. Statutes define legal rights, obligations, and penalties for individuals, businesses, and government entities. They serve as the foundation of the legal system and regulate various aspects of society, including criminal law, civil law, taxation, and commerce.

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Key Features of a Statute

✔ Enacted by Legislature – Created and approved by a governing legislative body. ✔ Binding Legal Authority – Must be followed by individuals and organizations. ✔ Codified in Statutory Law – Organized and published in official legal codes. ✔ Interpreted by Courts – Judges interpret statutes in legal disputes and apply them to cases.

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Types of Statutes

1. Criminal Statutes – Define crimes, penalties, and legal procedures (e.g., theft laws).

2. Civil Statutes – Govern non-criminal legal matters (e.g., contract laws, property laws).

3. Regulatory Statutes – Establish rules for businesses, environmental protection, and public health.

4. Procedural Statutes – Outline court procedures and legal processes (e.g., rules of evidence).

5. Tax Statutes – Regulate taxation policies and procedures (e.g., income tax laws).

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How Statutes Are Created

1. Proposal (Bill) – A law is drafted and introduced in the legislature.

2. Debate & Revisions – Lawmakers discuss, amend, and refine the bill.

3. Approval – The bill is voted on by legislators and, if passed, sent to the executive branch.

4. Enactment – The president or governor signs the bill into law.

5. Publication – The law is recorded in official legal codes.

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Examples of Famous Statutes

✔ Civil Rights Act of 1964 – Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. ✔ Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Protects the rights of people with disabilities. ✔ Patriot Act – Expands surveillance powers for national security. ✔ Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) – Establishes minimum wage and labor laws.

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Importance of Statutes in Law

✔ Defines Legal Framework – Establishes clear rules for individuals and businesses. ✔ Protects Rights & Freedoms – Ensures fairness and justice in society. ✔ Guides Law Enforcement – Provides legal standards for authorities. ✔ Adapts to Social Change – Can be amended or repealed as needed.

A statute is a crucial element of the legal system, shaping laws and governance across various sectors.

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reference

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1. Merriam-Webster – Statute

• URL: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/statute

• Explanation: Provides a concise definition of "statute" as a law enacted by the legislative branch of a government.

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2. Legal Information Institute – Statute

• URL: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/statute

• Explanation: Offers a detailed explanation of "statute," including its meaning and how it functions within the legal system.

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3. Harvard Library – Statutes: US and State Codes

• URL: https://guides.library.harvard.edu/law/statutes

• Explanation: Discusses the role of statutes in the legal system and provides guidance on researching federal and state statutes.

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4. Justia – U.S. Laws, Codes & Statutes

• URL: https://law.justia.com/codes/

• Explanation: Provides access to federal and state statutes, offering a comprehensive collection of legal codes.

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5. Vocabulary.com – Statute

• URL: https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/statute

• Explanation: Defines "statute" and provides examples of its usage in sentences.

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