Law is a set of rules that are enforceable through social institutions. These laws serve to preserve individual rights, provide orderly social change, and protect minorities against majorities.

The practice of law is typically overseen by a government, independent regulating body, or both. A private person can also create a legally binding contract.

Legal systems vary depending on the country. Some common systems are criminal law, civil law, and statutory law.

Criminal law is a field that focuses on governmental prosecution of criminals. It is designed to maintain the relationship between the state and federal governments.

Civil law is a legal system that requires less detailed judicial decisions. It can also be created by a single legislator or by a group legislature. Common law legal systems include the doctrine of precedent. This means that a decision made by a higher court binds the lower court.

In most first year classes, students will take a final exam. This final exam will test their knowledge of the material that they learned during the semester. Typically, the exams are based on a hypothetical fact pattern.

First year courses focus on constitutional history, the Bill of Rights, and civil procedure. Students will also study case briefs. They will create outlines of the material after class. This outline will help them understand the concepts better and will be useful on the final exam.

Study groups are a good way to become familiar with the concepts. Professors may ask questions to help students understand the facts of a case.