Common Law
/ˈkɒmən lɔː/
Definitions
- (n.) Law developed through judicial decisions and precedent, rather than statutes or codified laws.
The doctrine of stare decisis is fundamental to common law systems.
- (n.) The body of legal principles derived from English law and adopted in many jurisdictions, especially in former British colonies.
The United States legal system is largely based on common law traditions.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Common law evolves through court decisions, emphasizing the importance of precedent; drafters should distinguish it clearly from statutory or civil law in legal writing.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.