How we cite our quotes: Section.Part (if applicable).Paragraph
Quote #1
When any man, even in political society, renders himself by his crimes, obnoxious to the public, he is punished by the laws in his goods and person; that is, the ordinary rules of justice are, with regard to him, suspended for a moment, and it becomes equitable to inflict on him, for the benefit of society, what otherwise he could not suffer without wrong or injury. (III.I.8)
Justice is all about fairness and, in an ideal world, everyone should be treated the same way. But what if someone crosses the line? That's when they're no longer allowed the same rights as other citizens. When a person commits a crime, it's seen as only right to treat them in a way that, usually, would be seen as immoral and unfair. That's the way the cookie crumbles.
Quote #2
If we examine the particular laws, by which justice is directed, and property determined; we shall still be presented with the same conclusion. The good of mankind is the only object of all these laws and regulations. Not only is it requisite, for the peace and interest of society, that men's possessions should be separated; but the rules, which we follow, in making the separation, are such as can best be contrived to serve farther the interests of society. (III.II.1)
If we narrow our focus from the law in general to individual laws, we can see that they work on the same principle. It's all about what's best for society. That's why we have rules about property—first, we recognize that the separation of property is necessary, then we set about putting laws in place to regulate it (otherwise, things would get pretty messy).
Quote #3
The safety of the people is the supreme law: All other particular laws are subordinate to it, and dependent on it: And if, in the common course of things, they be followed and regarded; it is only because the public safety and interest commonly demand so equal and impartial an administration. (III.II.11)
Just in case we haven't got the message, Hume flags the one thing that overrides everything else: safety of the people. There are heaps of rules and laws in society and, while there are always exceptions, they're generally understood and obeyed. The reason? People realize that they're for the good of society as a whole.