Conscience of a Law-Abiding Citizen

Aim. To study the essence of the legal consciousness of a citizen, its structural components and the impact of its level of development on the functioning of the rule of law. Methodology. The research is based on historical, cultural, political, legal and psychological analysis. The concepts of “citizen” and “legal awareness” in the Western and Russian traditions are considered, as well as the influence of constitutional and legal policy on their formation. Results. Legal awareness includes cognitive, value-motivational, emotional and behavioral components. The insufficient level of its development contributes to legal nihilism, a decrease in confidence in state institutions and the effectiveness of legislation. Research implications . The results of the study make it possible to develop measures to strengthen the legal culture, improve the rule of law and ensure the realization of citizens’ rights, which is especially important for the development of a democratic society.