The law is a complex area of public policy that affects all aspects of life. The lawmaking branch of the federal government is Congress, which makes laws that govern the country. A bill is a proposal for new legislation, and the idea for a bill can come from many sources, including an individual member of Congress or the executive branch of the government, an advocacy group, or even from a constituent. A bill can then go through a lengthy process to become a law.
The state of New York has its own laws, which include the Constitution, laws passed by the Legislature and codified in the Consolidated Laws, and decisions made by courts interpreting state laws. The law that pertains to the city of New York is called the City Charter. In compiling this research guide, emphasis has been placed on sites offering the full texts of laws and regulations, along with commentary from lawyers writing primarily for other lawyers. Additional materials from the legal community have also been included, as well as government sites providing general information.