Popular Law
/ˈpɒpjʊlər lɔː/
Definitions
- (n.) Law deriving from customary, communal, or indigenous practices rather than formal statutory enactments.
The court acknowledged the validity of popular law in resolving disputes within the indigenous community.
- (n.) Legal principles recognized and accepted by the general populace as customary law.
Popular law often shapes societal norms even without formal codification.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Popular law typically refers to unwritten or community-based legal norms as opposed to formal legislative statutes; when drafting, clarify the source and scope of such law to distinguish it from enacted law.
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.