Legal Basics FAQs

• Q: What Is A Statute?
  A: A statute is a rule that was passed into law by the federal government or a state’s legislature.  A collection of several statutes make up … More
• Q: What Is The Process That Goes On Before A Rule Is Made Into A Law?
  A: A statute often begins as an idea to help society function better.  The idea can come from a citizen, an advocacy group, another state, or an elected … More
• Q: How Do I Find A Statute?
  A: A statute can be found in “Codes” in most law libraries or online by going to the state’s website.  Codes are divided into subject area, or … More
• Q: How Do I Know Which Statute I Violated?
  A: If you have violated a state or federal statute, and you have been charged with a crime, the prosecution will let you know which statute you are accused of violating … More
• Q: Sometimes On Tv I Hear Someone Say That The Federal Government Or The State Government Does Not Have "jurisdiction." What Does That Mean?
  A: Jurisdiction determines who has the authority to enforce the statutes/laws.  If a person breaks a federal law, the federal government is said to have jurisdiction … More
• Q: What Is A Crime?
  A: A crime is the breaking of a law (statute) contained in the Federal or State Codes. A crime is subject to punishment that can include fines, probation, prison or any … More