What does the term "case law" refer to?

The term "case law" refers specifically to decisions made by courts that establish legal precedents. This body of law is developed through judicial decisions, which interpret statutes, regulations, and constitutional provisions. When courts render judgments on specific cases, those rulings can influence how similar cases are adjudicated in the future, thus shaping legal principles and contributing to the overall legal framework.

Case law is critical in the common law system, where past judicial decisions guide current and future cases. It illustrates how judges interpret the law in practice and can fill gaps when statutory law is ambiguous or silent on a particular issue. Consequently, case law serves as a critical source of law that complements statutory law enacted by legislatures or constitutions.

This understanding emphasizes the dynamic nature of law and the role of courts in adapting and interpreting legal principles over time.