The four main forms of law that comprise the majority of legal systems in the world are civil law, common law, customary law, and religious law. Here is a brief description of each system along with an example country:
1. **Civil Law:**
- **Description:** Civil law systems are based on comprehensive written codes and statutes. These laws are typically codified and provide a clear set of rules and principles to be applied by judges. The role of judges in civil law systems is to apply the law rather than interpret it.
- **Example Country:** France
2. **Common Law:**
- **Description:** Common law systems rely heavily on case law and judicial precedents. Judges play a crucial role in interpreting and developing the law through their rulings. Legal principles established in earlier cases are followed in subsequent cases, ensuring consistency and predictability.
- **Example Country:** United Kingdom
3. **Customary Law:**
- **Description:** Customary law systems are based on the customs, traditions, and practices of a community or society. These laws evolve over time and are often unwritten. Customary law is particularly prevalent in indigenous and tribal communities.
- **Example Country:** Ghana
4. **Religious Law:**
- **Description:** Religious law systems are based on the principles and rules of a particular religion. These laws govern both the public and private lives of individuals within the religious community. Religious law can be the primary legal system or coexist with other legal systems.
- **Example Country:** Saudi Arabia (Islamic law/Sharia)