What is an example of statutory law?

Statutory law refers to laws that are enacted by a legislative body, such as Congress or state legislatures. These laws are written and codified, making them distinct from other forms of law. The code of criminal procedure established by Congress is a prime example of statutory law because it consists of specific provisions that govern the processes related to criminal prosecutions at the federal level. This body of law is created through the legislative process, reflecting the will and objectives of the elected representatives.

In contrast, judicial rulings on civil rights derive from interpretations of laws rather than being laws themselves; they influence how statutory laws are applied but are not statutory in nature. Similarly, common law is developed from court decisions and precedents rather than being created by a legislative body, making it a different classification altogether. Rules set by regulatory agencies, while important, typically derive their authority from enabling statutes rather than being standalone laws. Thus, the code of criminal procedure exemplifies statutory law as it is explicitly laid out and adopted through the legislative process.