Feudal law was a system of legal and social order that emerged in medieval Europe, primarily during the Middle Ages. It was characterized by a hierarchy of lords and vassals, where land was granted in exchange for service and loyalty. The king owned all the land, but he would grant portions to nobles, who in turn would provide protection and governance to those living on their land. Under feudal law, relationships were formalized through oaths of loyalty, known as fealty. This system created a network of obligations, where vassals were expected to support their lords in military and administrative matters. Disputes were often settled through local courts, with lords having significant power over their vassals and the people living on their estates.