What is meant by case law?

Case law refers to the body of law that is developed through judicial decisions and interpretations of statutes rather than being formulated through legislative statutes. When courts decide cases, particularly those that set a precedent, their rulings illustrate how laws should be applied in specific situations. This process of evolving legal principles based on court decisions is an essential aspect of the common law system.

The concept emphasizes the importance of how previous rulings inform and shape legal standards and procedures, creating a framework that can guide future cases. It reflects the principle of stare decisis, where courts are bound to follow the precedents established by higher courts within their jurisdiction. This interplay between court decisions and the application of law by legislators highlights how case law evolves over time, responding to changes in society and legal interpretation.