What type of law is based on judicial precedents rather than statutory laws?

The type of law that is based on judicial precedents rather than statutory laws is known as common law. Common law evolves through the decisions made by judges in individual cases, which set precedents that guide future court rulings. This body of law relies heavily on past judicial interpretations and rulings, allowing it to adapt and develop over time without the need for new legislation.

In contrast, statutory law consists of laws that have been explicitly written and enacted by legislative bodies. Civil law refers to a legal system that is primarily codified and derived from statutes and codes rather than judicial decisions. Administrative law involves regulations created by governmental agencies and the rules that govern those agencies' operations, which are also distinct from the concept of common law. Understanding the distinction between these types of law clarifies the unique role that common law plays in the legal system as it emphasizes the importance of historical judicial decisions in shaping legal principles.