What does Common Law represent?

Common Law represents a series of undocumented rules that have developed over time through court decisions. This body of law is primarily formed from judicial rulings and precedents rather than being codified in written statutes. When courts make decisions on cases, they interpret and apply legal principles, creating a body of case law that can influences future cases. This system relies heavily on the outcomes of previous legal disputes, which is why it is considered "undocumented" in the sense that there is not a single comprehensive written code that outlines these rules.

In contrast to Common Law, documented statutes are formally enacted by legislative bodies and represented as written laws. Statutory law is governed by legislation, which is clear and codified, whereas Common Law evolves through the interpretations made by judges in individual cases. This creates a dynamic legal environment where precedents can change based on new rulings, reflecting a flexible approach to law that adapts to societal changes and judicial interpretations. The role of Common Law is crucial in jurisdictions that maintain a common law system, as it establishes legal consistency and guidance through principles derived from historical court rulings.