Q&A (2025–2026) FOR MANAGEMENT AND
COMMERCE STUDENTS
How is law generally defined?
Law is a structured set of enforceable rules that regulates
interactions between individuals and the wider community.
What is the Rule of Law?
It is a fundamental principle of Canada’s legal framework that
guarantees fairness and consistency in how laws are applied.
What are the key principles of the Rule of Law?
1. All individuals are equal before the law.
2. Legal authority must not be exercised in an arbitrary manner.
Which historical document restricted the powers of the English
monarchy?
The Magna Carta, agreed to by King John in 1215.
What makes law different from other types of rules?
Laws are enforceable through official state systems and
institutions.
How are law and ethics connected?
Laws are often rooted in ethical values, reflecting the moral
standards of a society.
,What are the main types of justice?
1. Corrective justice (resolving private disputes)
2. Retributive justice (addressing criminal wrongdoing)
3. Distributive justice (fair allocation of resources in public
matters)
How has Christianity influenced legal systems?
It has shaped both judicial decisions and constitutional ideas over
time.
What legal systems exist in Canada?
1. Civil law (primarily in Quebec)
2. Common law (used in the rest of the country)
What is a key feature of the common law system?
Courts rely on precedents, meaning lower courts must follow
decisions made by higher courts.
What does bijuralism mean?
It refers to the presence of both civil law and common law
traditions within Canada.
,What is customary law?
Law that evolves over time, often influenced by traditions or
religious practices, and enforced by tribunals.
What is a civil code system?
A legal system based on a comprehensive written code where past
court decisions are not binding.
What is the main source of private law in civil law systems?
The civil code.
Which document influenced Quebec’s Civil Code?
The French Civil Code (Napoleonic Code) established in 1804.
What effect did the Norman Conquest have on English law?
It unified and centralized the legal system across England.
What contribution did William the Conqueror make to common
law?
He created a centralized court system and appointed judges to
handle major cases.
What is Black Letter Law?
A formal body of legal rules and principles developed from
recorded judicial decisions.
, What authority did ecclesiastical courts have before the
Reformation?
They handled matters related to religion, marriage, family, and
inheritance.
What is the Law Merchant?
A set of commercial rules and customs developed by traders to
resolve business disputes.
What are the main sources of law in a common law system?
1. Statutory law (legislation)
2. Case law (judicial rulings)
Why is the Code of Hammurabi important?
It is the earliest known written legal code and influenced later legal
systems.
What role do judges play in common law?
They interpret and apply legal precedents to maintain consistency
in rulings.