Austin classifies law under two main categories: laws set by God and laws set by humans (human laws).

Laws Set by God

This category of laws holds limited juristic relevance in Austin’s legal framework. Unlike scholastic teachings, which establish a close connection between divine and human laws, Austin does not emphasize this relationship.

Human Laws

Human laws are divided into two distinct classes:

1. Positive Laws (Laws Properly So Called) :

These are laws issued by a political superior or by individuals acting under legal rights granted by a political superior. Such laws are the primary focus of jurisprudence.

2. Other Laws :

These are rules not established by a political superior or under a legal right. This category includes a variety of rules, such as the rules of clubs, fashion, natural science, and international law. Austin collectively refers to these as positive morality.

Laws properly so called are characterized as commands. Every such law originates from a specific source and carries a sanction, which is an attached penalty or "evil" for non-compliance. Commands express the will of one party and obligate the other party to comply, with the threat of sanctions ensuring obedience. Austin emphasizes that every duty assumes a command, and non-compliance leads to potential consequences.

Types of Laws

Austin categorizes laws (both properly and improperly so called) into four types:

1. 1. Divine Laws : Rules set by God for human beings.
2. 2. Positive Laws : Laws strictly and properly so called, forming the subject of jurisprudence.
3. 3. Positive Morality : Rules of morality or moral obligations not enforced by political authority.
4. 4. Metaphorical or Figurative Laws : Laws that exist in a metaphorical sense.