Definition

Public law is the law, or legal frameworks, which are developed or enforced through political institutions.

Discussion

Public law is distinct from private (or civil) law in that it is imposed upon people whether or not an individual agrees to being subject to the law.

The frameworks and institutions under public law are what give effect to the state and, ultimately, the monopoly provision on several services in society.

Criminal law is a type of public law, whereby the acts which breach the Legal Principle are treated as offences against the state.