This guide includes links to many of the best websites for finding information about the laws and legal system of the People's Republic of China (PRC). It also includes links to websites covering China's business, political & legal culture.
The best online resource available to UC Law SF students is LawInfoChina
In researching Chinese law keep in mind that China has a unified legal system. Judges are seen as those who apply the law, with no power to create (or destroy) legal rules. China does not officially recognize cases or judicial precedents as a source of law. Former judgments can not be cited directly in the later judgments. Cases judged by higher courts may have de facto authority over lower courts.
China also has a unified court system. There is no jury system like the US. Judges play an active role in questioning all witnesses. Both the trial courts and the appellate courts try factual issues.
Court procedures are governed by two main guiding principles:
If you have any questions on your research stop by the Reference Desk and ask a Librarian, or e-mail Dean Deane, Foreign, Comparative & International Law Librarian and book an appointment to discuss your research.
