Case Law refers to the body of law that is established by the outcomes of previous court cases. When judges make decisions, they often rely on earlier rulings to guide their judgments. This helps ensure consistency and fairness in the legal system, as similar cases are treated in similar ways.
In many legal systems, particularly in common law countries, case law is a crucial source of law. It complements statutes and regulations, allowing courts to interpret laws based on real-life situations. This evolving nature of case law means that legal principles can adapt over time, reflecting changes in society and values.