What constitutes case law?

Case law is defined as the interpretation of statutory laws by courts. This means that when judges decide cases, their rulings often clarify the meaning and application of laws that have been enacted by legislative bodies. This interpretation becomes part of the body of law and can be used as precedent in future cases, influencing how laws are understood and applied.

Through judicial decisions, courts provide guidance on how laws should be interpreted, considering the context, potential ambiguities, and unique circumstances of specific cases. This process of interpretation is essential for the legal system, as it ensures that the law can adapt to changing societal values and ensure justice in individual cases. In contrast to other choices, which involve different branches of government or forms of lawmaking, case law specifically arises from the judicial branch and the interpretation of existing laws.