common law
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Blockaders even developed a legal argument to justify their actions, drawing on the common law defense of necessity, which allows someone to break a law to achieve a greater moral good.
From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026
Justice Elena Kagan said the administration was seeking to undo a legal tradition of birthright citizenship that dates back to English common law.
From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026
The Rosses say that breach of guest workers’ contracts—which DOL is seeking to enforce with penalties—is a common law claim that belongs in federal court.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026
"What concerns me a bit is you're encouraging us to adopt a common law rule that would essentially eliminate liability," Jackson said.
From Barron's • Dec. 1, 2025
The English had the common law, which relied on the jury system.
From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton
