what does common law mean

Question

anonymous · Answer

Common law is English law -- found today in various English speaking countries. Developed over a period of several hundred years preceding its export to English Colonies around the world. 

Orig. based on more tribal customs than any existing legal code. under the centralized legal system set up by william & his successors common law devloped thru the work of English judges over a long period of time.

It is based on precedent. 

precedent being an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.

Common law's features are  concern with due process rights of defendants, adversarial system emphasizing opposing roles of prosecutor and defense counsel battling it out in front of judge, greater concern w/ following procedural restrictions and the binding nature of the precedent. And the use of a jury of ones peers.

anonymous · Answer

Here is the wiki page for it if it helps better to understand: http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_law

anonymous · Answer

Common law, is something that is developed by judges. As opposed to legislative powers.

addonexus · Answer

the part of English law that is derived from custom and judicial precedent rather than statutes

anonymous · Answer

XD nice answers guys