Question

What is meant by the term 'General Law'?

• A. It consists of general ordinary law of the land.
• B. It consists of those legal rules which are taken judicial notice of by the court
• C. It consists of those bodies and legal rules which are exceptional in nature.
• D. (a) and (b)

Hint:

In jurisprudence, remember the dichotomy: \textbf{General Law} (applies to all, e.g., IPC) vs. \textbf{Special Law} (applies to specific groups or topics, e.g., Air Force Act).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the definition of 'General Law' in the context of jurisprudence. This term is often contrasted with 'Special Law'.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Jurists like Salmond have defined and classified law. According to this classification:
General Law refers to the main body of law that applies universally to all persons and territories within a state.
- (A) It consists of general ordinary law of the land. This is the primary definition of General Law. It's the law that applies to everyone as a general rule, such as the Indian Penal Code or the Indian Contract Act.
- (B) It consists of those legal rules which are taken judicial notice of by the court. This is also a characteristic of General Law. Courts are bound to take judicial notice of the general laws of the land; they do not need to be formally proven in court. Special laws or customs, on the other hand, might need to be proven.
- (C) It consists of those bodies and legal rules which are exceptional in nature. This describes 'Special Law', not General Law. Special Law applies to specific subjects (e.g., laws for the armed forces) or specific areas.
Since both (A) and (B) are accurate descriptions of the characteristics of General Law, the combined option (D) is the most complete answer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
General Law comprises the ordinary law of the land which the courts take judicial notice of. Therefore, both (A) and (B) are correct descriptions. Option (D) is the best choice.