Unenforced law

An unenforced law (also symbolic law) is a crime which is illegal, but is usually not penalized by a jurisdiction. It is a law which is usually ignored by law enforcement, therefore such laws have no consequences. Some people have criticized such laws claiming that it indicates sometimes the law means what it says, sometimes it doesn't.

Overview
The law may be put in place simply for symbolic reasons, but without actual prosecutions taking place. For example speeding is illegal, but patrol officers usually ignore motorists who are 5-10 miles an hour over the legal limit. Automated ticketing systems like computerized cameras will still issue fines in these circumstances in some but not all US states.

Although incest is illegal in many European countries, it is generally not enforced if between two consenting adults. 

Laws that are symbolic typically attempt to persuade rather than enforce, punish or prevent. An example was adultery in the US state of Colorado, where it was prohibited by law (since repealed), but was not punishable in any way. In Maryland adultery is prohibited by law with just a $10 fine, but not punishable by imprisonment.

See also
Decriminalization
Decriminalization of sodomy
Decriminalization of marijuana (disambiguation)
Decriminalizing sex work
Desuetude
Unenforceable
Victimless crime

References

Category:Criminal law