Common Law vs. Statutory Law: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 18, 2023
Common law is based on judicial decisions and precedents, while statutory law is written law enacted by a legislative body.
Key Differences
Common law, originating from England, is a system where legal principles are derived from judicial decisions and case precedents. Statutory law, on the other hand, is formulated and written down by legislative bodies, resulting in statutes or acts.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
A unique characteristic of common law is that it evolves over time, influenced by new decisions made by judges. Statutory law, however, remains static unless amended or repealed by the legislature.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Courts, when faced with cases where no statutory law applies, often rely on common law principles. Conversely, where there's a specific statute in place, statutory law takes precedence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
A strength of common law lies in its ability to adapt and change with societal values and norms. Statutory law, while potentially more rigid, provides clarity and certainty as it is explicitly written and codified.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
It's noteworthy that both common law and statutory law coexist in many jurisdictions, with each playing distinct yet complementary roles in the legal framework.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Precedence
Can be overridden by statutory law
Takes precedence when in conflict with common law
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
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Common Law and Statutory Law Definitions
Common Law
A system based on judicial decisions.
In many jurisdictions, marriage laws evolved through common law before being codified.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 31, 2023
Statutory Law
Needs a formal amendment process for changes.
Altering a statutory law often requires a majority vote in the legislative body.
Janet White
Oct 31, 2023
Common Law
A dynamic system adjusting with societal changes.
Over time, common law recognized digital assets as a form of property.
Janet White
Oct 31, 2023
Statutory Law
Can override common law principles.
When a new statutory law about digital privacy was enacted, it took precedence over any existing common law.
Janet White
Oct 31, 2023
Common Law
Coexists with and complements statutory laws.
In absence of relevant statutes, judges often turn to common law for guidance.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 31, 2023
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Statutory Law
Provides specific rules and regulations.
Driving age is determined by statutory law in many states.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Common Law
Legal principles derived from case precedents.
The principle of negligence was shaped extensively by common law.
Harlon Moss
Oct 31, 2023
Statutory Law
Written law created by a legislative body.
The Clean Air Act is a piece of statutory law addressing environmental concerns.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 31, 2023
Common Law
Originated from England's legal system.
U.S. legal traditions have roots in English common law.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 31, 2023
Statutory Law
Known for its clarity and precision.
Statutory laws provide explicit guidelines on tax rates.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
FAQs
What is common law?
Common law is a legal system based on judicial decisions and precedents.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Which law takes precedence when common law conflicts with statutory law?
Statutory law takes precedence over common law when there's a conflict.
Harlon Moss
Nov 17, 2023
How is statutory law created?
Statutory law is created by legislative bodies, resulting in statutes or acts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Can common law change?
Yes, common law evolves over time based on new judicial decisions.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Is common law only based on past decisions?
Primarily, yes. Common law is shaped by past judicial decisions and case precedents.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
What's an example of a legal principle derived from common law?
"Negligence" in tort law is a principle largely shaped by common law.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
How can statutory law be amended?
Statutory law can be amended through a legislative process, typically involving majority votes and sometimes additional procedures.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
Can a new statutory law be influenced by common law?
Yes, legislators might look to common law principles when drafting new statutes.
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
How do judges use common law in their decisions?
Judges often reference past cases and their outcomes, using precedent to guide their decisions when no relevant statute exists.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
What if a statute is unclear?
Courts may interpret the statute, and in doing so, might look to common law for guidance.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
Why do some prefer the predictability of statutory law?
Statutory law offers explicit guidelines, making it easier for individuals and entities to understand their rights and obligations.
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
Is common law written down like statutory law?
While common law is documented in case law and court reports, it isn't codified like statutory law.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
Why is statutory law considered more rigid?
Statutory law is explicit and remains static unless amended, making it more rigid compared to the evolving nature of common law.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Do statutes cover every possible legal scenario?
No, it's impossible for statutes to cover every specific scenario, which is why common law plays a complementary role.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
How did common law originate?
Common law originated from England's legal system and was later adopted by countries like the U.S.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Is common law always based on fairness?
While common law often seeks fairness, it's primarily based on precedent, which may not always align with contemporary views of fairness.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Are all countries based on common law systems?
No, only some countries follow a common law system, while others might follow civil law, religious law, or a mix.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Are there areas where only statutory law applies?
Yes, certain areas, like tax codes or immigration laws, are predominantly governed by statutory law.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 17, 2023
Can common law principles differ between jurisdictions?
Absolutely. Different courts can interpret and evolve principles differently over time.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
What's the main advantage of statutory law?
Statutory law provides clarity and certainty, as it explicitly codifies legal principles.
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
