Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Codified
Definition: When something is codified, it means that it is written down in a special book of rules called a code. This book has all the important laws and rules that people need to follow. It makes things easier to understand and follow because everything is in one place. For example, the United States has a book called the United States Code that has all the important federal laws in it.
Definition: To be codified means to be included in a formal and orderly code of laws, such as a legislative statute, constitution, or administrative rule. A code is a systematic compilation of existing laws in force, covering a complete legal system or a specific area.
For example, many states publish official codes of all existing laws, which are compiled by code commissions and enacted by the legislature. The United States Code (USC) is a compilation of federal law, and the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is a collection of commercial law. These codes make the formulation of legal principles and rules more concise, clear, and thorough, so that people can understand the rules more quickly and comprehensively.
A code usually covers the complete rules of a particular area, such as civil or criminal law. The law itself is formulated and published in the form of a code, which helps to ensure that everyone is aware of the rules and can follow them.