District of Columbia Legal Basics Lawyers

Frequently Asked Questions

• What Is A Statute?
  A statute is a rule that was passed into law by the federal government or a state’s legislature.  A collection of several statutes make up statutes/codes.  These codes are sets of … more
• What Is The Process That Goes On Before A Rule Is Made Into A Law?
  A statute often begins as an idea to help society function better.  The idea can come from a citizen, an advocacy group, another state, or an elected representative.  The idea is written … more
• How Do I Find A Statute?
  A statute can be found in “Codes” in most law libraries or online by going to the state’s website.  Codes are divided into subject area, or type of law. For example, if you … more
• How Do I Know Which Statute I Violated?
  If you have violated a state or federal statute, and you have been charged with a crime, the prosecution will let you know which statute you are accused of violating in your arraignment.  At … more
• Sometimes On Tv I Hear Someone Say That The Federal Government Or The State Government Does Not Have "jurisdiction." What Does That Mean?
  Jurisdiction determines who has the authority to enforce the statutes/laws.  If a person breaks a federal law, the federal government is said to have jurisdiction and the federal government … more