Lex Ferenda: What It Means and Its Role in Legal Theory
Definition & Meaning
Lex ferenda is a Latin term that translates to "what the law should be." It refers to the concept of law that advocates for future legal changes or reforms. This term is often discussed in legal contexts where there is a need to evaluate and propose changes to existing laws, particularly within the Anglo-American legal system.
Legal Use & context
Lex ferenda is commonly used in discussions about legal reform and policy-making. Legal professionals, lawmakers, and scholars may refer to this term when proposing new legislation or amendments to current laws. It is relevant across various areas of law, including:
- Civil law
- Criminal law
- Family law
Users can utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to draft documents that align with proposed changes in the law.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
One example of lex ferenda in action is a legal scholar proposing amendments to family law to better protect the rights of children in custody disputes. This proposal would reflect what the law should ideally encompass to serve justice effectively. (Hypothetical example)