Costa Rica
Legal System
Costa Rica is a civil law country meaning that the organization of the legal system is derived from the French Napoleonic Code rather than English common law.
Civil law, also called Continental law or Romano-Germanic law, is the most prevalent legal system in the world. The main difference between civil and common law is that that common law draws abstract rules from specific cases, whereas civil law starts with abstract rules, which judges must then apply to the various cases before them. In other words, historically speaking, common law is based upon traditions and laws are codified following court rulings. On the other hand, in the case of civil law, laws are first codified and then applied. There are a number of civil codes besides the Napoleonic code.
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Latest news
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Cruising through the Panama Canal - OCRegister
Google News - Costa Rica, 17-February-2008
[full story]
Cruising through the Panama Canal
OCRegister, CA - 11 hours ago
Ahead of us, Puntarenas, Costa Rica. But first, another day at sea. And I discover the spa. I luxuriate in the spa. I have the best massage I've had in ... -
Evenhandedly, he shaped state laws - News & Observer
Google News - Costa Rica, 17-February-2008
[full story]
News & Observer
Evenhandedly, he shaped state laws
News & Observer, NC - 15 hours ago
Has visited Senegal, Portugal, Italy, and recently took a family trip to Costa Rica. He once considered a career as a foreign service officer. ... -
College Financial Aid Help - WMBB-TV
Google News - Panama, 17-February-2008
[full story]
College Financial Aid Help
WMBB-TV, FL - 19 hours ago
By Tuquyen Mach Panama City, FL -- The cost of a college education keeps going up, so the folks at Gulf Coast Community College are seeking to help students ...