Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

Which statement best describes English common law?

1. Was referred to as unwritten law

2. Was evolutionary

3. Evolved from court decisions over hundreds of years

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The statement that best describes English common law encompasses all the options provided, which collectively reflect its nature and development. Common law is often referred to as unwritten law because it primarily arises from judicial decisions rather than statutory laws. This body of law is based on precedents, which means that it evolves through the outcomes of individual court cases rather than being codified in written statutes from the outset. Additionally, common law is evolutionary in nature. It adapts and evolves over time as courts interpret and apply legal principles to new situations. This adaptability allows the law to reflect changing societal values and norms. Moreover, the evolution of common law stems significantly from historical court decisions that have shaped its principles over hundreds of years. Each judicial decision contributes to a growing body of precedents that influence future rulings, demonstrating how common law is a product of extensive judicial history. Thus, the most comprehensive description of English common law recognizes its unwritten, evolutionary characteristics and its development through court decisions over time, making "all of the above" the best choice.