In which country did the concept of common law first develop?

Prepare for the NALS ALP Test with comprehensive quizzes. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with helpful hints and explanations to ace your exam!

The concept of common law first developed in the United Kingdom. Common law refers to a legal system that is primarily based on court decisions and precedents rather than written statutes or regulations. The evolution of common law in England began after the Norman Conquest in 1066, when a unified system of law was established that would apply consistently across the nation. This system was characterized by decisions made by judges in higher courts, which set legal precedents that became binding on lower courts. Over time, this body of law evolved through the accumulation of judgments and interpretations, forming the foundation of the legal systems in many countries influenced by British law. Therefore, identifying the United Kingdom as the birthplace of common law is crucial for understanding its development and subsequent influence on various legal systems worldwide, including those in Canada, Australia, and the United States, which later adopted elements of common law.

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