Final answer:
Common law is a system of law developed through judicial decisions. Common law states rely on precedence and judicial interpretation, while code jurisdiction states have comprehensive laws that leave little room for interpretation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common law refers to a system of law that is developed by judges through their decisions in individual cases, rather than through legislative statutes. It has its roots in medieval England and was inherited by the American colonies. Common law states, like the United States, rely on precedence and judicial interpretation, giving judges the opportunity to contribute to the process of law-making. In contrast, code jurisdiction states have comprehensive laws that leave little room for interpretation and rely on judges to simply apply the law.