Meaning and Concept of Justice According to Law
Justice according to law means justice that is administered strictly in accordance with legal rules, procedures, and established principles. It emphasizes that justice must not depend on personal discretion or moral opinion alone but should flow from duly enacted laws. This concept ensures that similar cases are treated alike and decisions are based on objective legal standards. Justice according to law upholds the rule of law, where law is supreme and governs both the ruler and the ruled. It provides certainty, predictability, and fairness in the legal system.
Legal Foundation and Constitutional Basis
Justice according to law is deeply rooted in constitutional governance. In India, Article 14 of the Constitution of India guarantees equality before law and equal protection of laws, ensuring justice is administered without arbitrariness. Article 21 mandates that no person shall be deprived of life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law. Courts are bound to decide disputes by applying statutory provisions, precedents, and procedural laws. Thus, justice according to law ensures that judicial decisions are lawful, reasoned, and legitimate.
Importance and Scope in Jurisprudence
Justice according to law plays a crucial role in maintaining legal certainty and public confidence in the judiciary. It prevents misuse of power and ensures accountability of judges. However, strict application of law may sometimes appear harsh, which is why courts also adopt interpretative tools to balance legality with fairness. Nonetheless, justice according to law remains the backbone of legal systems, ensuring that justice is not arbitrary but grounded in established legal norms.
Real-Time Illustration
A real-time example of justice according to law is criminal trial procedure. Even if public opinion strongly believes an accused is guilty, courts can convict only if guilt is proven beyond reasonable doubt following due process under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Acquittal due to lack of evidence reflects justice according to law, not popular morality.
Mnemonic for Easy Recall
A helpful mnemonic to remember justice according to law is “RULE”.
R – Rule of law
U – Uniform application
L – Legal procedure followed
E – Equality ensured
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