Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010)
Federal law refers to the set of rules and regulations that are created by the federal government of the United States. This includes the U.S. Constitution, federal statutes and regulations, treaties, and federal common law. It is different from state law, which is created by individual states within the country. Federal law applies to everyone in the United States and is enforced by federal agencies and courts.
Definition: Federal law refers to the body of law that includes the United States Constitution, federal statutes and regulations, U.S. treaties, and federal common law. It is different from state law, which only applies within the boundaries of a particular state.
Examples:
These examples illustrate how federal law can come in different forms, including constitutional provisions, statutes passed by Congress, and regulations created by federal agencies. They also show how federal law can impact a wide range of areas, from civil rights to consumer protection.