Legal Formalism

Legal formalism is a theory in legal interpretation that emphasizes adhering strictly to established laws and legal rules, without considering broader social implications or moral concerns. It treats legal texts—like statutes and contracts—as definitive and self-contained, focusing on their precise wording and structure. Legal formalists believe judges should apply the law as written, rather than making subjective judgments or allowing personal beliefs to influence decisions. This approach aims to promote consistency, predictability, and neutrality in the law, ensuring that similar cases are handled in similar ways.