The United States and former British colonies use which type of legal system?

The United States and former British colonies utilize a common law system, which is characterized by the reliance on case law and judicial decisions as primary sources of law. This system evolved from English law and emphasizes the principles established through precedents. In a common law system, courts interpret statutes and regulations, and their rulings in prior cases contribute to legal frameworks, making judicial decisions integral to the law itself.

The common law system allows for flexibility and evolution of the law as societal values and norms change over time. It contrasts with civil law systems, where laws are primarily codified and judges play a more limited role in shaping the law through decisions. Therefore, it's essential to understand that the common law tradition is foundational to U.S. legal principles and practices as well as those in many jurisdictions that were once British colonies.