An unenforced law (also symbolic law,[1] dead letter law[2]) is a law which is formally in effect (de jure), but is usually (de facto) not penalized by a jurisdiction. Such laws are usually ignored by law enforcement, and therefore there are few or no practical consequences for breaking them.[3] The existence of unenforced laws has been criticized for undermining the legal system in general, as such laws may be selectively enforced.[4]
- ^ "Symbolic law definition". Law Insider.
- ^ "Dead Letter Law and Legal Definition". USLegal.
- ^ Modern criminal law; Wayne R. LaFave; P 53
- ^ Fieschi, Catherine (2006-02-26). "Symbolic laws". Prospect Magazine. Retrieved 2021-04-26.