Examining the interplay between law and society from imperial to present-day China, this synoptic book traces the developments of law in Chinese societies. Vai Io Lo investigates the role of law in social governance, discussing China's ongoing reforms towards the rule of law with Chinese characteristics. Offering a comprehensive overview of the interaction between law and society in China, this book simultaneously provides a glimpse of China in terms of history, polity, society, economy and philosophy. Opening with a discussion on what 'law' and 'society' are, Lo frames the discussion within the contexts of imperial China, the transitional period, the pre-reform era, and finally contemporary China. Utilising up-to-date analyses and Chinese characters alongside key concepts explained in English, this book will be beneficial to Chinese studies and Chinese law scholars looking for a more integrated insight into the background behind contemporary Chinese law. Legal practitioners working in the field will also find this book an important reference.