Final answer:
Common Law is a legal system based on judicial precedents established by judges in court rulings, influential in the US and originating from medieval England. Key elements include the rule of law and the appellate process of courts of appeal. Sir Matthew Hale's work significantly impacted the common law tradition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Law, also known as case law or precedent, is a system of law based on judges' decisions in court cases, as opposed to statutes written by lawmakers. This legal tradition has its roots in medieval England and became a foundation for the judicial systems in many English-speaking countries, including the United States. Under common law, judges create legal precedents through their rulings, which are then respected and followed by other courts.
The courts of appeal, also called circuit courts, function under this judicial framework to review lower court decisions. The role of the judiciary is crucial in interpreting and applying laws in a fair and consistent manner, maintaining the rule of law where no one is above the judicial system. Sir Matthew Hale's comprehensive look at English common law was a significant contribution to legal texts and influenced the practice of law well into the late 19th century.