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Term Definition Common Law - A body of law, both substantive and procedural, developed over many many years by which judges and courts interpret statutes and legal points not specifically covered by statutes.
Application in Divorce In the United States, common law refers to the body of principles and action derived from England and established in America in the colonial period.

In a broad sense, "common law" includes all part of the positive law, legal theory and ancient custom.

All states except Louisiana are common law states because so much of their practice and procedure is derived from English common law.

Generally, in common law that which is not prohibited is permitted.