What is "common law"?

Common law stems from judgements in decided cases. These decisions can either help interpret existing laws or even fill in the gaps within statutes. While they do not override statutory law, they do set a legal precedent the lower courts have to follow. While the lower courts must follow the legal precedent, the common law can be overturned in higher courts or by new statutes.

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Answered by Adriana G. Law tutor

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