‘The legal system is constantly changing as it seeks to achieve justice.’ Evaluate this statement with respect to at least one contemporary issue concerning shelter. - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 29 - 2070 - Paper 1

The statement reflects an important aspect of the legal system – its responsiveness to societal needs and issues, including those related to shelter.

Constant Change in the Legal System

The legal system adapts to new challenges and strives to achieve justice. This is evident in:

• Legislative reforms: Laws concerning housing, homelessness, and property rights are frequently updated to address contemporary issues, such as the rising cost of living and urbanization.
• Judicial precedents: Courts often interpret existing laws in ways that reflect current social values and norms.

Contemporary Issues in Shelter

One significant contemporary issue is homelessness. In many jurisdictions, increasing homelessness has prompted legal changes, such as:

• New shelter laws: These laws may mandate the provision of emergency shelters for vulnerable populations.
• Zoning reforms: Adjustments to zoning laws can facilitate the development of affordable housing.

Conclusion

The statement can be evaluated as accurate; the legal system indeed evolves to tackle complex issues surrounding shelter, demonstrating its intent to achieve justice. However, challenges remain, including ensuring that new laws effectively address the root causes of these issues.