Language is the primary tool through which laws are drafted and their provisions are expressed. In the legal world, the importance of language is not limited to being a means of communication; rather, it is a fundamental pillar upon which justice is built, rights are preserved, and duties are defined. Proper language—free from errors and ambiguity—is the first guarantee for understanding and correctly applying legal texts. On the other hand, linguistic mistakes can lead to dire consequences that threaten the stability of the legal system and disrupt the daily lives of individuals and institutions.<br /><br />Why is proper language a critical necessity in drafting legal texts?<br />The importance of proper language in legal texts is embodied in several key areas:<br /><br />Clarity and precision: Laws aim to regulate social relations and define rights and duties. To achieve this, their texts must be clear and precise, leaving no room for interpretation or ambiguity. A single word—or even a punctuation mark—can change the meaning of a legal text entirely and affect individuals’ rights.<br /><br />Ensuring justice: Proper language contributes to achieving justice by conveying the intended legal meaning without distortion. If the text is vague or ambiguous, it may be misinterpreted, leading to incorrect application of the law and harming the legitimate interests of the parties involved.<br /><br />Ease of application and enforcement: The implementation of the law relies on its correct understanding by those responsible for enforcing it—be they courts, government departments, or individuals. The clearer and more specific the text is, the smoother and more effective its application becomes.<br /><br />Building trust in the legal system: When laws are drafted in proper, understandable language, they strengthen public trust in the legal system and its ability to deliver justice and protect rights.<br /><br />Reducing disputes: Ambiguous or unclear texts can give rise to countless legal disputes due to differing interpretations. Clear language helps reduce such disputes, saving courts and litigants both time and effort.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University ranks first among public and private universities in Iraq.