Frontier Law
/ˈfrʌn.tɪər lɔː/
Definitions
- (n.) A body of informal or ad hoc legal norms and practices emerging in newly settled or lightly governed regions, often characterized by self-help enforcement and limited official authority.
The frontier law in the territories often relied on community consensus rather than formal courts.
- (n.) A historical concept referring to legal systems or codes applied in borderlands or unsettled areas during periods of territorial expansion.
Frontier law shaped settlement agreements and dispute resolutions in the American West.
Forms
- frontier laws
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Use with care to distinguish between informal, extra-official practices and formal legal institutions; often appears in historical or comparative legal contexts.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.