this is one of the oldest existing codes. it contains 282 laws. the text contains a list of crimes and their various punishments, as well as settlements for common disputes and guidelines for citizens' conduct.
the Hammurabi Code does not provide opportunity for explanation or excuses, though it does imply one's right to present evidence. believe it or not, this is one of the earliest examples for the "presumption of innocence.
the idea is that once you see the the slab in open display, no one could plead ignorance of the law as an excuse.
the idea is that once you see the the slab in open display, no one could plead ignorance of the law as an excuse.