Understanding Public Perceptions of Law through Communication

Understanding public perceptions of law is crucial in a society where legal norms and practices influence nearly every aspect of daily life. Yet, the law remains opaque to many due to complex legal language, institutional inaccessibility, and mediated narratives that often misrepresent legal realities. This study investigates how communication through mass media, social media, legal discourse, and interpersonal interaction shapes individuals’ understanding and perception of the law. Drawing on legal geography, social constructionism, and communication theory, the research explores the co-production of legal meaning and the socio-spatial contexts in which law is interpreted. Using mixed methods, including text mining of Turkish news coverage and interviews conducted in Izmir, the study reveals how associations such as justice, punishment, and authority form diverse and often contradictory frames of legal understanding. It further highlights the role of media narratives, digital communication strategies, and cultural influences in constructing both trust and skepticism toward legal systems. The findings offer insight into the challenges and opportunities of translating legal knowledge for broader public comprehension and underscore the need for inclusive legal communication strategies to foster civic engagement and trust in legal institutions. Keywords: Public Perception, Legal Communication, Media Influence, Social Media, Legal Discourse, Legal Literacy, Law and Society.