A legal tradition refers to the long-standing practices, principles, and systems that shape how laws are created, interpreted, and enforced within a society. These traditions can vary significantly between different cultures and countries, influencing everything from court procedures to the role of judges and lawyers. Common legal traditions include civil law, common law, and religious law. Each legal tradition has its own historical roots and philosophical foundations. For example, civil law is based on written codes and statutes, while common law relies heavily on judicial precedents and case law. Understanding these traditions helps clarify how legal systems operate and evolve over time.