Paralegal Certification PrepLegal Terminology and ConceptsEasy
A paralegal is researching a case involving an alleged violation of a city ordinance that prohibits excessive noise after 10 PM. This type of law, enacted by a local governmental body, is classified as a(n):
- ARegulation
- BCase Law
- CStatute
- DOrdinance
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Ordinance
Ordinances are laws enacted by local governmental bodies, such as city councils or county commissions, to regulate local matters.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A regulation is a rule issued by an administrative agency, often to implement a statute.
- B. Case law (or common law) is law established by judicial decisions.
- C. A statute is a law passed by a legislative body at the state or federal level.
Ordinance
A law or regulation enacted by a local governmental body, such as a city council or county commission, to govern local matters within its jurisdiction.
- Applies locally (city, county).
- Governs issues like zoning, noise, public safety.
- Must not conflict with state or federal law.
Memory trick: Law comes from many 'sources' like a river's branches.