common law principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "common law principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a legal doctrine or rule that has developed through court decisions rather than through legislative statutes. Example: "The common law principle of precedent requires that courts follow the rulings of previous cases in similar circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Statute trumps any common law principle anyway".

The Guardian

It did not go to bat on behalf of a fundamental common law principle.

The Guardian

The UK supreme court in Horncastle lost sight of a fundamental common law principle.

The Guardian

"In doing so, it has upended a longstanding English common law principle that such general warrants are unlawful.

The Guardian

Plaintiff calls our attention to the common law principle that a person cannot assume the risk of another's negligence.

Harvard University

More broadly, Professor McGeveran said, people can sue advertisers who use their names and images without permission under a common law principle.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

That amendment incorporates common law principles for damages.

Harvard University

More than 30 years on, China has around 200,000 lawyers and a fast-evolving body of law that often draws on common law principles.

The Guardian

Chief among them is the rule of law as interpreted by courts based on British common law principles -- a condition for China's takeover of the city.

The New York Times

I think that the Harris decision was bottomed on a number of principles -- common law principles, equitable principles, constitutional principles -- but forget all of that, if you want to.

The New York Times

In a country governed by common law principles as well as statutes, a superficial education focused on contemporary rules is as limiting practically as it is intellectually.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal matters, specify the jurisdiction to which the "common law principle" applies, as these principles can vary between jurisdictions.

Common error

Avoid using "common law principle" when referring to laws enacted by legislatures; instead, use terms like "statutory law" or "legislation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common law principle" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object within a legal sentence. It identifies a specific legal concept or rule derived from judicial decisions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

48%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common law principle" refers to a legal doctrine established through judicial decisions, distinguishing it from statutory law. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently found in legal and academic contexts, as well as news reports, though its precise application often depends on the specific jurisdiction. Common alternative phrases include "established legal principle" or "judge-made law principle". Remember to avoid using this phrase when referring to statutory laws to prevent confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common law rule

Shorter version of the original phrase, maintains the meaning.

established legal principle

Focuses on the well-established nature of the legal principle.

traditional legal doctrine

Emphasizes the historical and customary aspect of the doctrine.

judge-made law principle

Highlights the origin of the principle in judicial decisions.

precedent-based rule

Indicates that the rule is based on previous court rulings.

case law doctrine

Highlights that is a doctrine that has evolved through court cases.

unwritten legal principle

Emphasizes the lack of formal codification of the principle.

fundamental legal tenet

Highlights the core or essential aspect of the legal principle.

longstanding legal norm

Highlights the time that the norm has been accepted.

accepted common law standard

Emphasizes the widespread acceptance of the common law standard.

FAQs

What is a "common law principle"?

A "common law principle" is a legal rule or doctrine that has been developed by judges through court decisions, rather than through legislative statutes. It forms part of the common law legal system.

How does a "common law principle" differ from a statute?

A "common law principle" is derived from judicial precedent, while a statute is a law enacted by a legislature. Statutes can modify or even overrule existing common law principles.

Can a "common law principle" be overridden?

Yes, a "common law principle" can be overridden by a statute. Legislation takes precedence over common law, meaning that if a statute conflicts with a common law principle, the statute will prevail.

What are some examples of "common law principles"?

Examples of "common law principles" include the rule against double jeopardy, the principle of natural justice, and various principles related to contract law and tort law. The specific principles vary by jurisdiction.