Decree vs. Legislation: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 6, 2023
A Decree is an official order issued by an authority, while Legislation refers to laws made by a governing body.
Key Differences
A Decree is typically an official directive or proclamation made by someone in power, such as a ruler, president, or judge. It can be viewed as an immediate and authoritative decision, often made to address a specific situation. Legislation, on the other hand, involves a systematic process of proposing, drafting, debating, and enacting laws, often within a legislative body like a parliament or congress.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Decrees might be used in various contexts, from monarchs issuing royal decrees to judges rendering judicial decisions. They often don't undergo an extensive process of discussion or debate, unlike Legislation, which usually involves multiple readings, committees, and stages before becoming law. The primary difference is the immediacy and individual authority behind a Decree, contrasted with the collective, deliberative process of Legislation.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Legislation is a cornerstone of democratic societies, allowing elected representatives to create, amend, or repeal laws on behalf of their constituents. It is grounded in a structured system, ensuring that multiple perspectives are considered. A Decree, in some instances, might bypass this democratic process, originating from a single authority figure and being executed without a broader consultative procedure.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
However, both Decrees and Legislation serve to regulate, command, or govern behaviors and actions within a society. While they derive their authority from different sources and processes, their ultimate goal is to provide direction, clarity, and order to citizens and institutions.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Comparison Chart
Origin
Issued by an individual authority.
Formed by a collective governing body.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
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Process
Often immediate, without broad consultation.
Deliberative, involving multiple stages of discussion and approval.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Typical Issuers
Monarchs, presidents, judges.
Parliaments, congresses, assemblies.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Flexibility
Can be more responsive to specific situations.
Generally more structured and systematic.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Democratic Involvement
Might bypass democratic processes.
Central to democratic governance, involving elected representatives.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Decree and Legislation Definitions
Decree
An official order issued by a legal authority.
The king issued a Decree forbidding public gatherings.
Harlon Moss
Oct 25, 2023
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Legislation
A law or set of laws proposed or enacted.
The recent Legislation on healthcare sparked national debate.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 25, 2023
Decree
A decision of a court or tribunal.
The judge's Decree finalized the divorce proceedings.
Harlon Moss
Oct 25, 2023
Legislation
Laws considered collectively.
The new Legislation focused on environmental protections.
Harlon Moss
Oct 25, 2023
Decree
An edict or law made by a ruler.
The emperor's Decree changed the course of the empire's history.
Harlon Moss
Oct 25, 2023
Legislation
The act or process of making laws.
The committee is involved in the Legislation of new tax policies.
Janet White
Oct 25, 2023
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Decree
A formal and authoritative order.
The council's Decree mandated recycling throughout the city.
Janet White
Oct 25, 2023
Legislation
The body of laws in a particular jurisdiction.
International Legislation can be complex and varied.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 25, 2023
Legislation
The exercise of the power and function of making laws.
Legislation requires careful consideration and debate.
Sara Rehman
Oct 25, 2023
Legislation
The act of legislating; preparation and enactment of laws.
Pass legislation
There is a lack of legislation about human cloning.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Legislation
Law which has been enacted by legislature or other governing body
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
To order, establish, or decide by decree
Decreed that the two kingdoms would be united.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Legislation
The act of legislating; preparation and enactment of laws; the laws enacted.
Pythagoras joined legislation to his philosophy.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
(legal) The judicial decision in a litigated cause rendered by a court of equity.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
(legal) The determination of a cause in a court of admiralty or court of probate.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
An order from one having authority, deciding what is to be done by a subordinate; also, a determination by one having power, deciding what is to be done or to take place; edict, law; authoritative ru decision.
There went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
Poor hand, why quiverest thou at this decree?
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
A decision, order, or sentence, given in a cause by a court of equity or admiralty.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
An edict or law made by a council for regulating any business within their jurisdiction; as, the decrees of ecclesiastical councils.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
To determine judicially by authority, or by decree; to constitute by edict; to appoint by decree or law; to determine; to order; to ordain; as, a court decrees a restoration of property.
Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
To make decrees; - used absolutely.
Father eternal! thine is to decree;Mine, both in heaven and earth to do thy will.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
A legally binding command or decision entered on the court record (as if issued by a court or judge);
A friend in New Mexico said that the order caused no trouble out there
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
Decide with authority;
The King decreed that all first-born males should be killed
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Decree
A binding decision or proclamation.
The Decree of the committee set new guidelines for the event.
Harlon Moss
Oct 25, 2023
FAQs
Who can propose Legislation?
In democratic societies, elected representatives typically propose Legislation.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Is a Decree always permanent?
No, a Decree can be temporary or permanent, depending on the issuing authority's intent.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Can a Decree override existing laws?
Depending on the jurisdiction, a Decree might override certain laws, especially if issued during emergencies.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Is every Decree legally binding?
Generally, yes, but its binding nature depends on the authority and legal framework of the jurisdiction.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
What's the main goal of Legislation?
The goal of Legislation is to create, amend, or repeal laws in the best interest of the public.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Can citizens influence a Decree?
While Decrees are top-down, public opinion or pressure can sometimes influence their issuance or content.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
How is Legislation enforced?
Legislation is enforced by relevant governmental agencies and the judicial system.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
How can citizens influence Legislation?
Citizens can vote, petition, or voice opinions to their representatives to influence Legislation.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
Can Decrees address any topic?
Generally, yes, but they must adhere to the broader legal and constitutional framework.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
How quickly can a Decree be enacted?
Decrees can often be enacted immediately upon issuance.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Are Decrees common in democracies?
While more associated with autocratic systems, Decrees can exist in democracies, especially during emergencies.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Is all Legislation equally impactful?
No, while some Legislation might have widespread effects, others address more niche or specific issues.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
How long does the legislative process take?
It varies, but Legislation can take weeks to years, depending on complexity and political dynamics.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Why is Legislation important?
Legislation provides a structured way to manage society, protect rights, and ensure order.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Can a Decree be challenged?
Depending on the legal framework, a Decree might be subject to judicial review or other challenges.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Are Decrees and executive orders the same?
They're similar but might differ based on the country's legal terminology and structure.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Can Decrees be modified?
Yes, the issuing authority or another competent body can amend or revoke a Decree.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Who votes on Legislation?
In democratic systems, elected representatives in legislative bodies vote on Legislation.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Who ensures Legislation aligns with the constitution?
Typically, a country's judiciary or a constitutional court reviews Legislation for constitutionality.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
What's the first step in Legislation?
Often, it's the introduction of a bill or proposal by an elected representative.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
