UK divided into England/Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Laws from one jurisdiction may apply similarly to others. Final appeals go to UK Supreme Court. Devolution has created variations between Wales and England
No distinct legal profession existed in ancient times. First legal specialist was judge, who was part-time. Royal officials took over legal duties in secular stages. Religious leaders sometimes judged or advised judges
Contract is legally enforceable agreement between two or more parties. Contract law varies between jurisdictions: common, civil, or mixed law. Contract formation requires offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual intent
Comparative law studies differences and similarities between legal systems worldwide. Leibniz introduced classification of legal systems in 1667. Montesquieu is considered early founding figure of comparative law. Sir Henry Maine established modern comparative jurisprudence in 1861
Equity originated in English Court of Chancery for cases where common law was inflexible. Chancery evolved from court of conscience to court of equity by 16th century. Statute of Uses 1535 established distinction between legal and equitable interests
Justinian I established Corpus Juris Civilis in 527 to address legal conflicts. Commission of ten men reviewed existing imperial laws in 528. First edition published in 529, followed by second edition in 534. Code consists of twelve books covering various legal areas