SS.7.C.1.9 - Rule of Law

Miranda v. Arizona

Supreme Court held that criminal suspects must be informed of their right to consult with an attorney and of their right against self-incrimination prior to questioning by police. This supports procedural fairness of rule of law.

fair procedures

The government has rules to run the country. The government must follow those rules when they make decisions and make sure their decisions are fair to citizens.

consistent application

The law applies to everyone equally regardless of how rich they are or what kind of job they have.

transparency of institutions

The procedures of the judicial branch are clear and can be understood by the people. Courts are open to the public and not hidden behind locked doors. This statement describes an impact of the rule of law.

decisions based on the law

When a person faces a problem with the law they have a right to use the legal system and present their views and facts to try and solve the problem. This also means that judges will use the law to determine whether or not a person is guilty of breaking the law.

rule of law

the idea that those who govern must follow the laws; no one is above the law. This principle is included in the US Constitution.

Code of Justinian / Justinian's Code

was a model for medieval monarchs, the Roman Catholic Church, and later legal thinkers Used the law to unite the empire under his control All leaders following him would follow that tradition of autocratic rule.

Code of Hammurabi

A collection of 282 laws. One of the first (but not THE first) examples of written law in the ancient world.

law

A rule established by government or other source of authority to regulate people's conduct or activities

Twelve Tables

Completed in 449 BCE, these civil laws developed by the Roman Republic following demands by plebeians.

accountability to the law

Everyone must answer to the law. Citizens and public officials are legally responsible for their actions and there are consequences if they break the law.

Lady Justice

Lady Justice is an symbolic personification of the moral force in judicial systems.

Oath of Office

Oath taken by the president on the day he takes office, pledging to "faithfully execute" the office and "preserve, protect, and defend" the constitution. This shows that the president has an influence on the justice system.

enforcement of the law

Police provide citizens with a feeling of safety in their community. The police follow the law and have rules for dealing with crime. People found guilty of breaking the law face consequences for their acts.