What does statutory law pertain to?

Statutory law pertains to laws that are enacted by legislative bodies, such as Congress or state legislatures. This type of law is distinct from other legal sources, as it is written and codified in statutes, regulations, or codes. When a legislative body votes and passes a new law, it is considered statutory law once it is signed into effect.

The significance of statutory law lies in its clarity and accessibility; it provides a formal, written record of laws that govern behavior and outline legal obligations and rights within a jurisdiction. Statutory laws can cover a wide range of areas, including criminal law, commerce, and civil rights, and are meant to address societies' evolving needs.

In contrast to statutory law, customs and traditions represent unwritten practices that may influence behavior but do not have the force of law. Laws developed by judges, often referred to as common law, emerge from judicial decisions and interpretations of statutes rather than being created by legislative action. General principles of justice may inform legal interpretations but are not laws in themselves.