What does case law primarily consist of?

Case law primarily consists of judicial interpretations of statutes and constitutions. This body of law is developed through the decisions made by courts and judges, which serve to clarify, expand, or sometimes contradict existing statutes. When judges interpret laws, they provide essential context on how those laws should be applied in specific situations. This creates a framework for subsequent cases, as those interpretations can set precedents that lower courts must follow, shaping the application of legal standards over time.

Judicial interpretations are important because they can influence how laws are enforced and can adapt to changing societal values or circumstances. Through case law, the judiciary plays a critical role in the legal system, helping to ensure that the law remains relevant and effectively addresses the nuances of individual cases. This dynamic nature of case law distinguishes it from defined statutes, which are explicitly written and passed by legislative bodies, or policies set by administrative agencies, which are rules and regulations created by government entities with specific regulatory functions. Community standards and practices might inform judicial interpretations but are not considered case law itself.