World & Knowledge
How rules work, so they don't surprise you
Novice
Subdomain
How law actually works: statutes, courts, precedent, and the difference between civil and criminal cases. The mental map before any specific topic makes sense.
Mens rea and actus reus
A criminal offence usually needs a guilty act (actus reus) together with a guilty mind (mens rea).
Open
Precedent and stare decisis
Courts generally follow the reasoned decisions of higher courts in similar cases, so that law stays predictable.
Open
Standard of proof, criminal vs civil
Criminal cases require proof beyond reasonable doubt, while civil cases require proof on the balance of probabilities.
Open
Civil law
Disputes between parties, usually about rights and money.
Criminal law
State vs individuals for offences against society.
Contract
Legally enforceable agreement (offer + acceptance + consideration).
Tort
Civil wrong causing harm (negligence, defamation, etc.).
Burden of proof
Who has to prove the claim.
Standard of proof
How convincingly they must prove it.
IRAC
Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion, legal reasoning template.
Writ
Court order, in India, fundamental rights enforceable under Article 32 / 226.
Habeas corpus
Writ requiring a detained person be produced in court to test legality of detention.
Stare decisis
Principle that courts follow precedent from prior similar rulings for consistency.
Mens rea
Guilty mind, the mental intent element required for most criminal offences.