Legal Definitions - adjudicative law

Adjudicative law, also known as case law or decisional law, refers to the body of law that is created through the decisions made by judges in court cases. This type of law is based on the interpretation and application of existing laws to specific cases that come before the court.

For example, if a court case involves a dispute over a contract, the judge will review the relevant laws and precedents to determine how the contract should be interpreted and enforced. The judge's decision in this case will become part of the body of adjudicative law that applies to similar cases in the future.

Adjudicative law is an important part of the legal system because it helps to clarify and refine existing laws, and provides guidance for judges and lawyers in future cases. It is also a reflection of the values and priorities of a particular society, as the decisions made by judges are influenced by cultural, social, and political factors.