Difference Between Right and Law?
A Constitution is founded on the principle that all citizens have the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Rights are often defined as legal, social, or ethical principles of freedom or entitlement. The Bill of Rights was included in the US Constitution to define the rights of citizens further and to prohibit Congress from making laws that restrict those rights.
Law is a rule of conduct with binding legal force and effect which is recognized and enforced by a government or controlling authority. Laws can be amended and changed over time. Federal laws apply to everyone in the United States. “State and local laws can vary by location and apply to people who live and work in a particular state, town, county, city, or municipality.” Says Attorney Miya Griggs.
Common Federal Laws
Immigration:
This law consists of a seven-category preference system that gives priority to relatives of citizens and legal permanent residents as well as individuals with specialized skills.
Bankruptcy:
According to the Cornell Law School, “Bankruptcy law provides for the reduction or elimination of certain debts, and can provide a timeline for the repayment of no dischargeable debts over time.”
Social Security:
This law provides old age, survivors, and disability insurance benefits to workers and their families. The benefits are paid to the individual or the family based on the person’s employment record and contributions to the social security program.
Anti-Discrimination and Civil Rights:
Series of laws that make it illegal to discriminate against someone based on race, color, religion, national origin, or sex. It also protects individuals against retaliation for filing a charge of discrimination or participating in a discrimination investigation or lawsuit. “Furthermore, this law requires employers to accommodate employees’ religious practices within reason. ”Says, Attorney Miya Griggs.
State and Federal Taxes:
As a US citizen or permanent resident, you must file income tax returns and report your income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as well as to your state, city, or local tax department, if required. If you do not file income tax returns while living outside of the United States for any length of time, or if you say that you are a non-immigrant on your tax returns, you may lose your permanent resident status. All residents, whether on a temporary visa status or otherwise pay local and state sales and wage taxes automatically through their purchases and employee paychecks.
National Minimum Drinking Age:
This law establishes the minimum legal drinking age as 21 years old. In the majority of states, the legal age to serve alcohol is 21 in establishments where alcohol sales are the primary source of revenue. “The maximum level of alcohol per drink and the maximum number of drinks a person can be served at one time can vary from state and location.” Says Attorney Miya Griggs.
Common Rights
- Freedom of speech — the right to express any opinions without censorship or restraint
- Freedom of religion — the right to practice whatever religion you choose
- Freedom of the press — the right to circulate opinions in print without censorship by the government.
- Freedom to gather or assemble in public places — the right to peacefully assemble, collectively express, and petition the government for a redress of grievance
- Right to bear arms — in most cases, under a well-regulated militia, you have the right to keep and bear arms
- Right to due process — the legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights that are owed to a person
Originally Posted: https://attorneymiyagriggs.wordpress.com/2021/02/21/difference-between-right-and-law/
