QQuestionCivil Law
QuestionCivil Law
Which best defines common law?
A. Law based on the wishes of legislators
B. Law based on precedent
C. Law based on a priest's rulings
D. Law based on a judge's feelings
11 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1:I'll solve this problem step by step, focusing on explaining the concept of common law.
Step 2:: Understand the Definition of Common Law
Common law is a legal system that derives its principles and rules from previous judicial decisions and precedents, rather than from legislative statutes or executive regulations.
Step 3:: Analyze the Key Characteristics of Common Law
- Judges make decisions based on previous similar cases - Precedents (prior court rulings) become the basis for future legal interpretations - The system allows for gradual evolution of legal principles through judicial reasoning
Step 4:: Eliminate Incorrect Options
- Option A (Law based on legislators' wishes) describes statutory law, not common law - Option C (Law based on a priest's rulings) is not a legal system - Option D (Law based on a judge's feelings) is too subjective and not systematic
Step 5:: Identify the Correct Answer
Option B: Law based on precedent is the most accurate definition of common law.
Final Answer
Law based on precedent The common law system, originating in England and widely used in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and other former British colonies, relies on judicial decisions from previous cases to guide current legal interpretations and rulings.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students