Why we need rules and laws

Imagine a football match with no rules, or a road with no Highway Code. Rules and laws help people live together safely and fairly.

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Rules and laws

A rule is an instruction about what you may or may not do, for example a school rule about phones.
A law is a rule made by Parliament (or another law-making body) that applies to everyone in the country and is enforced by the police and courts.
Breaking a school rule might lead to a detention. Breaking a law can lead to a fine, a court case or even prison.

Why have laws?

Laws protect people and their property, keep order, settle disputes fairly and protect rights.
The rule of law means that everyone, including the government, must obey the law, and the law applies equally to all.
A good law should be clear, fair, and known to the people who must follow it.

Criminal and civil law

Criminal law deals with crimes, such as theft or assault. These are wrongs against society, so the state prosecutes the accused person and they can be punished.
Civil law deals with disagreements between people or organisations, such as a broken contract, a dispute between neighbours or a faulty product. The person who lost out usually seeks compensation (money) or a court order.
Criminal lawCivil law
Deals withCrimes against societyDisputes between people or organisations
ExampleShopliftingA builder who does not finish a job
OutcomePunishment, such as a fine or prisonCompensation or a court order
Worked example

Jo's neighbour's tree falls and damages her car. Is this a criminal law or civil law matter?

  1. No crime has been committed: nobody stole or hurt anyone on purpose.
  2. It is a disagreement between two people about who should pay for the damage.
  3. Disputes between people are dealt with by civil law.

Answer: Civil law: Jo could seek compensation from her neighbour.

Key idea

Rules guide behaviour in a group; laws apply to everyone and are enforced by the police and courts. The rule of law means everyone must obey the law. Criminal law deals with crimes; civil law deals with disputes.

Key words
Rule of law
The principle that everyone, including the government, must obey the law, and the law applies equally to all.
Criminal law
Law that deals with crimes, which are wrongs against society. The state prosecutes and the guilty can be punished.
Civil law
Law that deals with disputes between people or organisations, such as broken contracts, usually settled with compensation.
Compensation
Money paid to make up for a loss or injury.

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  1. Who makes the laws that apply across the UK?

    1. Parliament
    2. Head teachers
    3. The police
    4. Local shops
    Show the answer

    Answer: Parliament

    Parliament makes laws that apply to everyone. School rules only apply in one school.

  2. Which example best shows the rule of law?

    1. The Prime Minister can ignore laws they dislike
    2. A government minister who breaks the law is prosecuted like anyone else
    3. Only poor people are punished for crimes
    4. Judges follow orders from the government
    Show the answer

    Answer: A government minister who breaks the law is prosecuted like anyone else

    The rule of law means everyone, including people in power, must obey the law.

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Sources and references

Checked by the GCSE-ready editorial team, 23 October 2026. Last updated 2 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we will fix it.

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