What Is the Difference Between Common and Statute Law?

By Staff WriterLast Updated Apr 3, 2020 7:56:36 AM ET
difference-between-common-statute-law
Digital Light Source/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

Common law and statutory law are two systems of law used in the American judicial system. Common law is based on prior court decisions while statutory law is made by the legislature.

Advertisement
More From Reference
Is the Coronavirus Crisis Increasing America's Drug Overdoses?
Is the Coronavirus Crisis Increasing America's Drug Overdoses?
Fact Check: What Power Does the President Really Have Over State Governors?
Fact Check: What Power Does the President Really Have Over State Governors?
Festival of Sacrifice: The Past and Present of the Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha
Festival of Sacrifice: The Past and Present of the Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha
How Worried Should We Be About the Saharan Dust Cloud’s Arrival?
How Worried Should We Be About the Saharan Dust Cloud’s Arrival?
What Are a Tenant’s Rights During Eviction?
What Are a Tenant’s Rights During Eviction?
Has the Time Come to Abolish the Electoral College?
Has the Time Come to Abolish the Electoral College?