Which statement accurately describes case law?

Case law refers to the body of law that is established through the judicial system and is derived from the decisions and rulings made by courts. It encompasses the interpretations and applications of statutes and regulations, offering precedents that guide future cases. Case law is found in collections of reported decisions, which are documented records of cases that outline legal principles as determined by judges.

This idea emphasizes how the legal system builds upon its own history, drawing from previous cases to shape and define legal standards and practices. The collection of these reported cases becomes a critical resource for legal professionals, helping them to understand how laws have been applied in specific situations and how they may be interpreted in future cases. This documentation solidifies the role of courts in shaping the law, rather than merely enforcing it based on unwritten rules or public sentiment.