Natural law
Natural law: The idea that there are principles of right and justice that exist independently of human legislation and can be known through reason or revelation. Blackstone wrote that the law of nature is "binding over all the globe" and that "no human laws are of any validity, if contrary to this." The Declaration of Independence relies on "the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God." American courts apply these principles mainly through the written Constitution.
What natural law means
In short, natural law is a term you will meet in court papers, rules and legal research. The definition above gives its usual meaning in American civil practice. However, the exact meaning can depend on the rule, statute or court decision that uses it. So it helps to read the term in context.
Where natural law comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
Read the source: Positive law.
How to research the term
Start with the primary source. For example, if natural law appears in a federal rule, read the rule itself and its official notes. After that, check your court’s local rules and any standing orders from the judge. In addition, search recent decisions from your own state or federal district. They show how courts read natural law in practice. Because state rules often differ, our state procedures guide links to each state’s official rules. Above all, make sure the version you read is still in force.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Motor vehicle: a term each statute defines for its own purposes, generally covering self-propelled vehicles used on roads, including automobiles, trucks, buses and motorcycles.
- Movant: the party who files a motion.
- Municipal corporation: a city, town, village or other local government that a state creates or charters as a body politic and corporate, with powers to govern its territory, own property, make contracts, issue bonds and sue and be sued. The Act of February 21, 1871 made the District of Columbia "a body corporate for municipal purposes."
- National: a person who owes permanent allegiance to a state (8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(21)).
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.