Final Project

Running Head: SOURCES OF LAW 1

The primary sources of law in the U. S are; the constitution of the united states, federal and state statutes, administrative regulations and case law (University of Idaho College of Law, n.d.). First, the constitution defines the position of government and the rules that dictate its day-to-day running. All laws of the land are expected to abide by the rules of the constitution. For example, the fourth amendment protects U.S citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. Law enforcement agencies are expected to observe this requirement to the letter regardless of their State of jurisdiction.

Secondly, statutory laws are established during federal or state legislative sessions. While federal statutes are applicable within the 50 states, state statutes apply only within the state. For example, the clean air act which was established at the federal l level regulates air pollution across the board.

Thirdly, administrative regulations provide guidelines at the state and federal level on how laws should be applied. The USEPA is also mandated to enforce pollution standards in the United States. For example, the internal revenue service crafts rules that affect taxation polices in all the 50 states. Lastly, Case Law and Judicial Opinions become sources of law when judges apply definitions and rules based on the traditional way of dealing with specific matters. For example, matters of torts which rarely exist in State/federal law are usually defined based on tradition.

References

University of Idaho College of Law. Sources of Law. Retrieved from https://www.uidaho.edu/~/media/UIdaho-Responsive/Files/law/library/legal-research/guides/sources -law.ashx.