How is 'common law' developed?

Common law is developed primarily through judicial decisions made in court. This legal system is characterized by the principle of stare decisis, which means that courts are bound to follow the precedents established in prior case law. As judges interpret statutes, apply legal principles, and develop legal norms, their rulings contribute to the body of common law. This process allows for the law to evolve and adapt over time, reflecting changes in society and individual circumstances.

The role of judges in interpreting laws and making decisions based on previous rulings distinguishes common law from statutory law, which is created through the legislative process. While the other options mention alternative sources of law, such as statutes, public opinion, and international agreements, these do not specifically describe how common law itself is constructed and refined through the judicial system.