Translation guide
The set of laws, courts, and procedures that make up a country's or region's system of justice.
Referring to the overall structure of laws and courts in a country or region.
The most common and neutral term for 'legal system', encompassing laws, institutions, and procedures.
Talking about the legal system of a particular nation, often in comparative contexts.
Simply attach the country name to 法制度. This is the most straightforward way.
アメリカの法制度は州によって異なる。
The American legal system varies by state.
More formal, often used in academic or legal writing.
Classifying legal systems into broad categories.
法制度 is the broadest term for the entire legal system. 法制 often refers to the body of laws or legislative framework, and is more formal. 司法制度 specifically means the judicial system (courts, judges). Use 法制度 for general contexts.
日本の法制度は複雑だ。
Japan's legal system is complex.
Often used in formal or written contexts, similar to 'legislation' or 'legal framework'. Can refer to the body of laws themselves.
新しい法制が導入された。
A new legal system was introduced.
Specifically refers to the judicial system, i.e., courts and judges, rather than the entire legal framework.
司法制度の改革が必要だ。
Reform of the judicial system is necessary.
The British legal system is based on case law.
Civil law system (as opposed to common law). Literally 'continental law'.
日本は大陸法の国です。
Japan is a civil law country.
Common law system. Literally 'Anglo-American law'.
英米法では判例が重視される。
In common law systems, precedents are emphasized.
Islamic law or Sharia.
イスラム法の国々では、コーランが法源となる。
In Islamic law countries, the Quran is a source of law.