Definitions
- Referring to a law passed by a legislative body, such as a state or federal government. - Talking about a permanent and formal rule that applies to a wide range of situations. - Describing a legal code or regulation that is enforceable by the courts.
- Referring to a law or regulation passed by a local government, such as a city or town. - Talking about a specific and limited rule that applies to a particular locality or situation. - Describing a municipal code or regulation that is enforceable by local authorities.
List of Similarities
- 1Both are laws or regulations that are enforceable.
- 2Both are created by a governing body.
- 3Both can carry legal consequences if violated.
- 4Both are designed to maintain order and protect citizens.
- 5Both can be amended or repealed by the governing body.
What is the difference?
- 1Scope: Statutes are broader in scope and apply to a wider range of situations than ordinances, which are more specific and limited in their application.
- 2Authority: Statutes are passed by higher levels of government, such as state or federal, while ordinances are passed by lower levels of government, such as city or town.
- 3Duration: Statutes are generally permanent and remain in effect until repealed or amended, while ordinances may be temporary or expire after a certain period of time.
- 4Enforcement: Statutes are enforced by the courts, while ordinances are enforced by local authorities.
- 5Penalties: Violating a statute may result in more severe penalties than violating an ordinance.
Remember this!
Statute and ordinance are both legal terms that refer to laws or regulations that are enforceable. However, the difference between them lies in their scope, authority, duration, enforcement, and penalties. Statutes are broader in scope and apply to a wider range of situations, while ordinances are more specific and limited in their application. Statutes are passed by higher levels of government and are generally permanent, while ordinances are passed by lower levels of government and may be temporary. Violating a statute may result in more severe penalties than violating an ordinance.
