Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) Practice Test

What is common law primarily based on?

1. Legislation passed by elected officials

2. Presidential executive orders

3. Customs and traditions codified through the legal system

4. International treaties and agreements

The correct answer is: Customs and traditions codified through the legal system

Common law is primarily based on customs and traditions that have been established over time through judicial precedents and the legal system. This body of law develops from court decisions and interpretations rather than through legislative statutes or executive orders. As judges make rulings in individual cases, they create legal principles that influence future decisions, thereby allowing the law to evolve in response to societal changes and practices. This practice emphasizes the importance of historical context and the reliance on established legal precedents, which are essential components of the common law system. It allows for consistent interpretation and application of the law over time, providing stability and predictability within the legal framework. In contrast, legislation passed by elected officials typically refers to statutory law, which is created through the legislative process. Presidential executive orders are directives issued by the President to manage the operations of the federal government, and international treaties and agreements govern relations between nations rather than domestic legal frameworks. These differences highlight why the answer focusing on customs and traditions is the most suitable representation of the foundation of common law.