What is an essential feature of the legal system as defined by "law"?

An essential feature of the legal system, as defined by "law," is that it must be enforced by a controlling authority. This highlights the importance of a centralized body or institution, such as the government or judicial system, which has the power to enforce legal norms, adjudicate disputes, and ensure compliance. Without such enforcement mechanisms, laws would lack effectiveness, as they would rely solely on voluntary adherence rather than being obligatory.

This characteristic underlines the rule of law, which operates on the principle that laws apply equally to all individuals and that violations will result in designated consequences. The presence of a controlling authority assures that there is an institutional capability to administer justice and uphold the legal framework within a society.

In contrast, options highlighting public opinion, flexibility, or a purely punitive focus do not capture this foundational aspect of law’s function in society. While public support, adaptability, and punishment can play roles within a legal framework, they are not defining features that constitute the necessity of law itself.