Statutes are written laws enacted by a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress. They provide specific rules and guidelines that govern behavior within a jurisdiction. Statutes can cover a wide range of topics, including criminal law, civil rights, and public health. Once passed, statutes are codified and organized into legal codes for easy reference. They can be amended or repealed by the same legislative body that created them. Statutes play a crucial role in the legal system, as they establish the framework for legal rights and responsibilities in society.