Legal Literacy - Humans live side by side and need each other's help in living life, which is why humans are social beings. Aristotle also said that humans are “zoon politikon” or social creatures, which means that Aristotle meant that humans are destined to live in society and interact with each other, something that distinguishes humans from animals. Because humans are social creatures, a system is needed to control human behavior so as not to seize the interests and freedoms of others in socializing and society, namely law.[1]
Law is a system of rules that governs the behavior of society, ensures justice, and provides mechanisms for resolving disputes. Although law is an integral part of everyday life, many people do not fully understand what law is and how the legal system works. Limited knowledge of the law can result in a lack of understanding in fulfilling legal obligations, facing legal problems, and accessing justice. Therefore, it is important to understand the basic concepts, functions, and benefits of law.
Definition and Basic Concepts of Law
Law has quite diverse meanings, in terms of types, aspects and scope that is very broad in scope, most legal experts argue that it is difficult to give an adequate and precise definition of what law is. This view is in line with Van Apel Doorn's statement that law has so many aspects and such a broad scope that it is impossible to summarize all its complexities in one adequate and satisfactory definition. However, the meaning of law can be seen from how to realize the law and how the law is viewed in society.[2]
Law is a set of rules originating from customs and norms that grow and develop in people's lives to regulate human behavior in socializing and society, which if violated can be punished in the form of sanctions. Law not only regulates the patterns of human behavior or a person in society, but law also provides certainty, justice, and benefits to humans themselves.
In understanding law, it is necessary to know and study legal norms because they are the basis or essential things in law. Studying or knowing law without legal norms is like studying medicine without studying the human body. Therefore, law is a normative science, this cannot be denied and that is indeed the reality.[3]
Furthermore, in understanding the law, it is also necessary to know and comprehend the norms that form the basis of the law, which are religious norms, moral norms, and norms of etiquette. Understanding a norm in law is crucial because, literally, a norm means a rule, principle, standard, and legal measure. Therefore, in general, a norm is a rule, guideline, or instruction for a person to act and behave as they should towards fellow human beings in a particular community. It can be said that a norm is the foundation or basis for the existence of a law.[4]
Objectives of Law
The purpose of law is basically to control human behavior, but over time, the purpose of law has evolved not only to control human behavior but also to create order in society. By establishing rules and norms, the law helps maintain order and security, so that society can function properly without detrimental conflicts. The law protects the rights and freedoms of individuals, ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and equally. In addition, the law also acts as a behavioral guide, helping society understand what is considered appropriate and inappropriate behavior.
Then there is a theory in law called the Triad Theory, proposed by Gustav Radbruch, stating that there are three objectives of the existence of law, namely:[5]
- Legal certainty (legal certainty);
- Legal Justice (Justice); and
- Legal Utility (Utility)
).
From the three objectives expressed by Gustav Radbruch, we can understand one thing that the law must provide from its existence. The existence of a law must be clear and understandable to the people who are subject to the law. Legal certainty aims to realize justice and equality before the law without discrimination against all individuals.
Understanding and Utilizing the Legal System
The legal justice referred to is also a principle or concept that refers to balance, equality, and fair treatment for all individuals in the legal system so that social jealousy does not occur among members of society. Meanwhile, the resulting legal product must refer to the usefulness and effectiveness of the law in achieving social goals and public welfare. The law must be useful in regulating society and creating good conditions for all human beings in society.
The law plays a role as a tool to maintain social balance and justice. With a clear and structured legal system, society can rely on fair and consistent rules. The law also helps prevent abuse of power and ensures that actions that violate social norms or human rights receive appropriate sanctions.
- Understanding the legal system provides various benefits for both individuals and society. Here are some of the benefits of understanding the law, namely:
- Increasing legal awareness;
- Knowing what is allowed and not allowed;
- Understanding the position, rights, and legal obligations in society;
- To create order, peace, tranquility, and justice in society; and
- To understand the order of state and social life.
To effectively utilize the legal system, individuals need to understand their rights and obligations. This includes knowing the relevant legal procedures, how to file complaints or claims, and how to obtain legal assistance if needed. Legal education and access to information about the law are essential to ensure that everyone can use the legal system to protect their interests and obtain justice.
Conclusion
Law is a fundamental element in the life of society that functions to maintain order, protect rights, and enforce justice. By understanding the basic concepts and objectives of law, individuals are expected to better utilize the legal system for their interests and contribute to the sustainability of justice in society. Knowledge of the law is not only important for personal interests but also to ensure that society functions fairly and orderly. Therefore, increasing legal understanding among the public should be a priority to strengthen the legal system and social justice.
Bibliography
[1] https://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoon_Politikon
[2] https://eprints.unmer.ac.id/id/eprint/276/2/CHAPTER%201.pdf
[3] Sri Warjiyati, “Understanding the Basics of Law”, (Jakarta: PRENADAMEDIA GROUP), p. 4
[4] Arga Baskara, “Law as a System of Norms”, Vol. 3, No. 2 (2014) Ratu Adil, p. 1
[5] Feri Setiawan Samad, “Consolidation of the Rule of Law to Strengthen National Vigilance in the Context of National Resilience”, National Resilience Institute of the Republic of Indonesia, 2011, p. 19
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