The rule of law is a fundamental component of democratic society and is defined broadly as the principle that all members of society -- both citizens and rulers -- are bound by a set of clearly defined and universally accepted laws. In a democracy, the rule of law is manifested in an independent judiciary, a free press and a system of checks and balances on leaders through free elections and separation of powers among the branches of government.

Although a written constitution is not a necessary component of democracy – for example, Great Britain does not have one -- in the United States, the rule of law is based primarily on the U.S. Constitution and on the assurance that U.S. laws – in conjunction with the Constitution -- are fair and are applied equally to all members of society.