How is common law defined?

Common law is defined as unwritten laws that arise from customs and court precedent rather than being codified in statutes. This body of law develops through judicial decisions that create legal principles and rules over time, establishing a framework that is informed by historical cases and judicial interpretations. The reliance on precedent means that common law evolves, adapting to new circumstances while maintaining continuity with established legal traditions.

This flexibility allows common law to address unique cases that may not be directly covered by statutory law. The customs and societal norms play a significant role in shaping common law, as judges interpret and apply these principles to resolve disputes. In contrast, written or statutory laws are explicit and enacted by legislative bodies, leading to fixed rules that do not change unless revised by those authorities. Thus, the option correctly identifies common law as a dynamic and evolving system rooted in judicial decisions rather than static or strictly codified laws.