Introduction
Law is not just about knowing rules and cases. It is about how to think like a lawyer. This way of thinking is called legal reasoning.
Many people believe lawyers and judges deliberately make things complicated. In reality, the legal profession uses a special method of thinking to ensure fairness, consistency, and justice. This article explains legal reasoning in simple terms, focusing on what 100-level law students need to understand for Legal Method.
What Is Legal Reasoning?
Legal reasoning is the logical and organised way lawyers and judges think when solving legal problems.
In simple terms, it means:
- Understanding the facts of a case
- Identifying the legal issues
- Applying the relevant law
- Reaching a reasonable conclusion
Legal reasoning helps courts avoid emotional decisions and ensures similar cases are treated alike.
👉 Related reading:
Meaning and Importance of Legal Method – LawPedia
Understanding the Language of the Law
Before learning how lawyers reason, you must understand the language they use.
1. Law Is Written in General Terms
Most laws are written in broad language so they can apply to many situations.
If laws were too specific, they would fail when new situations arise.
Judicial Authority
In Donoghue v Stevenson (1932) AC 562, the court stated a general rule that manufacturers owe a duty of care to consumers. This rule later applied to many cases.
2. Use of Abstract Legal Words
Law uses special words to express ideas shortly instead of long explanations.
Examples include:
- Contract
- Possession
- Company
- Rule of law
Each of these words has a special legal meaning.
3. Common Words With Special Legal Meanings
Some everyday words mean something different in law.
For example:
- A “case” becomes a matter
- “I think” becomes “it is submitted that”
This makes legal communication more precise.
4. Use of Latin Words
Latin phrases are common in law, such as:
- Nemo judex in causa sua (no one should be a judge in his own case)
- Audi alteram partem (hear the other side)
You don’t need to memorise all of them at once — understanding the meaning is more important.
Principles and Rules of Law
What Is a Legal Principle?
A legal principle is a basic idea that guides the law.
Examples:
- Rule of law
- Separation of powers
- Natural justice
What Is a Legal Rule?
A rule is how a principle is applied in practice.
For example, the principle of natural justice includes:
- Nemo judex in causa sua
- Audi alteram partem
Judicial Authority
In Garba v FCSC (1988) 1 NWLR (Pt.71) 449, the Supreme Court confirmed that fair hearing is essential in legal proceedings.
Legal Rhetoric (Persuasion in Law)
Legal rhetoric means using words to persuade.
- Lawyers persuade judges using cases and statutes
- Judges reason carefully to reach fair decisions
In Nigeria, persuasion relies heavily on:
- Judicial authorities (cases)
- Statutory authorities (Acts and sections)
This is why lawyers always say “My Lord, relying on the case of…”
Legal Logic
Legal reasoning must follow logic. There are three main types law students should know.
1. Deductive Reasoning (Syllogism)
This moves from general law to specific facts.
Example:
Anyone who steals commits an offence.
Tunde stole a phone.
Therefore, Tunde committed an offence.
This is commonly used when applying statutes.
2. Inductive Reasoning
This moves from specific cases to a general rule.
Judicial Authorities
- Hadley v Baxendale (1854)
- Adetoun Oladeji v Nigerian Breweries Plc (2007)
Courts look at similar past cases to decide new ones.
3. Analogical Reasoning
Here, courts compare two cases to see if they are similar enough to apply the same rule.
If facts are alike, the decision may also be alike.
When Courts Reject Legal Arguments
Judges do not always accept arguments, even when cases are cited.
Courts may reject an argument if:
- It causes injustice
- It relies on technicalities
- It goes against public policy
Judicial Authority
In Chinwendu v Mbamali (1980) 3–4 SC 31, the Supreme Court warned courts against sacrificing justice for technicalities.
Important Statutory Authority
SUMMARY
Legal reasoning teaches law students how to think, not just what to memorise. By understanding:
- The language of the law
- Legal principles and rules
- Logic and reasoning methods
100-level students build a strong foundation for all other law courses.
Mastering legal reasoning early will make courses like Contract, Tort, Constitutional Law, and Criminal Law much easier later on.