The legal system of the People's Republic of China has seen significant changes since legal reforms began in 1978. At the end of the second decade of legal reform, law-making and institution-building have reached impressive levels. Understanding the operation and possible futures of law in the People's Republic of China requires an appreciation of the normative influences on the system, as well as an examination of how these norms have worked in practice.

Introduction
1. Influences on the Legal System: Norms and Context
2. Legal Institutions
3. Contract Law
4. Property
5. Human Rights: Social Welfare and Social Control
6. Foreign Economic Relations
Conclusion: Prospects for China's Legal Reform Project
Appendix A: Table of Laws, Regulations and Treaties