What does the term ‘natural justice’ encompass?

The concept of 'natural justice' fundamentally includes the right to a fair hearing and the rule against bias, which are both essential principles in ensuring fairness in legal proceedings. The right to a fair hearing implies that individuals involved in legal processes should have the opportunity to present their case fully, which means they must be informed of the charges or claims against them and allowed to respond properly. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the legal system and protecting individuals' rights.

Additionally, the rule against bias ensures that decision-makers are impartial and do not have a vested interest in the outcome of the proceedings. This principle protects against any undue influence that may affect the fairness of a decision, thereby upholding the legitimacy of legal processes.

In contrast, other options relate to aspects of legal proceedings that do not directly encompass the core of 'natural justice.' For instance, the ability to appeal a court decision, while significant, is a separate concept concerning the review of legal judgments rather than the foundational principles of justice itself. Similarly, the principle of legality refers to the enactment of laws within a framework of established rights and duties, while the assurance of legal representation, although important, is not a guaranteed aspect of natural justice itself in all cases across various legal systems. Thus,