What distinguishes statutory law from common law?

Statutory law is characterized by being formalized and codified legislation that has been passed by a legislative body, such as Congress or a state legislature. This type of law is created through a structured process, which involves proposal, debate, and approval by elected officials. As a result, statutory laws are clearly defined and documented in legal codes, making them readily accessible and understandable to the public.

This distinguishes statutory law from common law, which is derived from judicial decisions and interpretations rather than legislative enactments. Common law evolves over time through the rulings of courts, where judges interpret statutes and create legal precedents based on case law. This reliance on court decisions allows common law to adapt to new circumstances but also leads to a less predictable body of law compared to the clarity provided by statutes.

While common law may include principles that apply to various areas, its essence lies in the jurisprudence developed through case law, rather than being based on written statutes. This distinction is crucial in the study of legal systems, as it highlights the difference between laws created by legislative action and those shaped by judicial interpretation.