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Corpus Juris: A Comprehensive Guide to the Body of Law
Definition & Meaning
The term "corpus juris" is a Latin phrase that translates to "body of law." It refers to the complete collection of laws, legal cases, and their interpretations within a specific jurisdiction. Historically, this term was first used by the Romans and has evolved to describe comprehensive legal collections in the United States, such as Corpus Juris Secundum. In a broader sense, it encompasses the entire body of law applicable to a country, jurisdiction, or court, such as the corpus juris of the Supreme Court of the United States.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
Corpus juris is utilized in various legal contexts, including civil, criminal, and administrative law. It serves as a foundational concept in understanding the legal framework of a jurisdiction. Legal practitioners often refer to corpus juris when discussing the comprehensive nature of laws that govern specific areas, such as contract law or tort law. Users can manage legal matters related to this term through resources like US Legal Forms, which offers templates and forms drafted by attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples illustrating the use of corpus juris:
A lawyer researching case law may refer to the corpus juris of their state to understand how similar cases have been decided in the past.
A legal scholar might analyze the corpus juris of the European Union to discuss the integration of laws across member states. (hypothetical example)
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Variation
California
Corpus juris includes specific state codes and regulations.
New York
Emphasizes case law in its corpus juris more than statutes.
Texas
Incorporates a unique set of local laws into its corpus juris.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Corpus Juris Secundum
An American legal encyclopedia.
Corpus juris is a broader term encompassing all laws, while Corpus Juris Secundum is a specific publication.
Case Law
Law established by the outcome of former court cases.
Case law is a component of corpus juris, but corpus juris includes statutes and regulations as well.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If corpus juris applies to your situation, consider the following steps:
Research the relevant laws and cases in your jurisdiction.
Utilize resources like US Legal Forms to find legal templates that may assist you.
If your situation is complex, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.