Explanation of "Case Law"
Definition: "Case law" refers to laws that are developed through court decisions and rulings rather than through written statutes or legislative acts. In simpler terms, it means the rules that come from judges' decisions in court cases. These decisions set precedents, which means they can influence how future cases are decided.
Usage Instructions:
"Case law" is used as a noun.
It is often discussed in legal contexts, especially when talking about how laws are interpreted by courts.
Example:
Advanced Usage:
In legal studies, understanding case law is crucial because it helps lawyers and judges know how to apply the law based on past rulings.
Case law can be used to argue for or against a certain interpretation of a law.
Word Variants:
Case (noun): A legal matter brought before a court.
Law (noun): A system of rules that a society or government develops to deal with crime, business agreements, and social relationships.
Different Meanings:
In a broader context, "case" can refer to a situation or example, while "law" can refer to any rule or principle. However, in legal terms, "case law" specifically pertains to judicial decisions.
Synonyms:
Common law: This is closely related as it refers to laws developed through court decisions.
Judicial precedent: This term emphasizes the idea of earlier court decisions influencing future cases.
Case precedent: Similar to judicial precedent, focusing on the past cases.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
Summary:
"Case law" is an important concept in the legal system, focusing on how judges' decisions in past cases shape the understanding and application of laws today.