Medieval law refers to the legal systems and practices that developed in Europe during the Middle Ages, roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century. It was influenced by various sources, including Roman law, local customs, and the teachings of the Christian Church. Laws were often unwritten and varied significantly between regions, leading to a patchwork of legal traditions. The enforcement of medieval law was typically carried out by local lords or feudal authorities, who had the power to adjudicate disputes and impose penalties. Trials could involve methods such as trial by combat or trial by ordeal, reflecting the era's beliefs about justice and divine intervention.