What type of law is established primarily through judicial rulings and customs?

Common law is primarily established through judicial decisions and the customs of society rather than being written down in statutes or regulations. This body of law evolves over time as judges interpret laws and make rulings on cases, thereby setting precedents that guide future decisions. The principle of stare decisis, which means "to stand by things decided," plays a critical role in common law, ensuring that similar cases are treated consistently based on prior rulings.

The methodologies of common law allow it to adapt to changing social norms and conditions, as judges have the discretion to shape the law based on the specific facts of a case and the principles of fairness and justice. In contrast, statutory law is created through legislative processes, administrative law is related to regulations set by government agencies, and international law governs the conduct of countries and international organizations on the global stage. Each of these other forms of law operates within its own framework and method of establishment, which differentiates them from the evolving nature of common law.