Statutory law refers to a set of laws enacted by a legislative body, as opposed to common law which is based on judicial decisions. The spelling of the word "statutory law" is pronounced as /ˈstætjʊtɔri lɔː/. The first syllable, "stat," is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by a "tj" sound (similar to "ch") and a short "u" sound. The second syllable, "utory," is pronounced with a long "o" sound, followed by a "t" sound and a short "u" sound. The final syllable, "law," is pronounced with a long "o" sound and a silent "w."
Statutory law refers to a set of laws that are created and enacted by a legislative body. This body may be a national or state legislature, and the laws are typically intended to govern and regulate a particular jurisdiction. Statutory law contrasts with other forms of laws, such as common law, which is based on legal precedents and judicial decisions.
The primary characteristic of statutory law is that it is written and codified, meaning it is documented in a formal written format. These laws are usually published and made widely available for public reference. They cover a broad range of legal subjects, including criminal offenses, civil procedures, contracts, property rights, and administrative regulations.
Statutory laws are created through a legislative process that involves the consideration, debate, and voting on proposed bills. These bills may be introduced by government officials, lawmakers, or citizens. Once a bill is approved, it undergoes various stages of review and amendment before being passed into law. This process ensures that statutory laws are democratic in nature and reflect the will of the legislative body.
Violating statutory law can result in legal consequences, such as fines, penalties, or imprisonment. Individuals and organizations are obligated to follow these laws to maintain societal order and ensure justice. Statutory law is an essential component of the legal system, providing a framework for resolving disputes, protecting rights, and maintaining law and order within a jurisdiction.
The word "statutory" is derived from the Latin word "statutum", which means "something established" or "law". It comes from the Latin verb "stare", meaning "to stand" or "to set". "Law" itself originates from the Old English word "lagu", which also means "law" or "ordinance". Therefore, the term "statutory law" refers to laws that are established by a legislative body and are formally written down.